Elias "Big E" Cornejo's Obituary
A beloved father, grandfather, brother, and son passed away peacefully on November 10, 2018 with family by his side in Auburn, California. Elias Cornejo, 76, bravely confronted and battled cancer for over a year. He was born on February 18, 1942 in Brawley, California and resided in San Mateo, California, for over 70 years. Upon graduation from San Mateo High School in 1959, Elias served in the U.S. Army 1st Cavalry Division during the Vietnam War.Elias had several careers throughout his life, he was a skilled Dental Lab Technician, as well as a jewelry maker and we cannot forget the social bartender he was, whom everyone knew as ‘Big E.” He loved the game of golf and the comradery with his golf buddies. Elias was an avid and faithful fan of the San Francisco 49ers and enjoyed watching his Bay Area sports teams.Elias was a gracious and generous man who was loved by his family and friends. His infectious smile and twinkle in his eyes lit up the entire room. He was charismatic with a charming personality, and his infamous greeting, “Hi Darling,” always made everyone smile.Elias was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Thelma Cornejo, sister Diane Hayselden, and brothers Steven and Alfred Cornejo. He is survived by his sister Beatrice (Paul) Balnys; his children Shane, Shanon (Christie), Thea, Roman, and Raquel Cornejo; his grandson Logan Cornejo; and many nieces and nephews.
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