Jose Cortez, a retired Associate Warden, passed away Dec. 26, 2022.
Cortez began his career with the department in April 1987. After graduating the Basic Correctional Officer Academy, he reported to the California Rehabilitation Center as a Correctional Officer in June 1987.
In August 1987, he transferred to Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility (RJD). During his time at RJD, he promoted to Correctional Counselor in May 1990, and then Correctional Counselor II Supervisor in April 1993.
Cortez promoted again to Correctional Counselor III at Ironwood State Prison in June 1998. In 2003, he promoted to Associate Warden at Chuckawalla Valley State Prison, where he remained until retiring in 2007.
“We extend our condolences to Jose’s family, loved ones and friends,” according to a statement issued by Chuckawalla Valley State Prison.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.