James Clayton Corey was born on May 15, 1983 to David and Valerie Corey. He passed away on Aug. 5, 2010 at the age of 27. He grew up in Escalon, attending El Portal Elementary School and Escalon High School. He also lived and worked in San Mateo, but called Bellevue, Wash. home for the past 10 years. After putting himself through tech school, James had a successful career as an auto mechanic, which he absolutely loved. From an early age he loved to take things apart and then reassemble them. He loved fixing things, especially motorcycles, and when he was 16 he rebuilt his first engine. He had a great sense of humor and enjoyed the outdoors; camping and hiking in the mountains were some of his favorite things to do.
James is survived by his parents, David and Gloria Corey of San Mateo and Valerie and David Bear of Turlock; grandparents, Edward and Leane Souza of Hayward; siblings, Josh Corey of Ceres, Kelly Corey of Escalon and Jacob Corey of Modesto; step-siblings, Jesse Lofton of San Mateo, Stephen Lofton of San Mateo, David Bear of Modesto, Brent Bear of Modesto and Karen Quintoa of Oakdale; and a number of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, friends, and loved ones. James was preceded in death by his grandparents, Thomas and Alice Corey of Escalon.
A Remembrance of Life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 14 at Deegan Funeral Chapel, 1441 San Joaquin St., in Escalon.
There is an online guest book available for you to share your memories and condolences with James’ family. Please visit our website at www.deeganfuneralchapels.com.