Rafael Medina, a retired correctional supervising cook, passed away Feb. 27, 2026.
He began his career with the department in June 2018 at Wasco State Prison-Reception Center.
He remained at the institution until he retired in September 2024.
“Medina will be greatly missed by all who knew and worked with him,” according to the institution. “He will be remembered as always having a smile on his face.”
Visitation will be held from 4-8 p.m. March 17 at Funeraria Del Angel Delano, 707 Browning Road in Delano. Rosary will be held there the same day from 6-7 p.m. A committal service will be held from 11-11:30 a.m. March 18 at North Kern Cemetery District, 627 Austin St. in Delano.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.
Related content
Weljan Estrella, retired accountant trainee
Weljan Estrella, a retired accountant trainee, passed away April 21, 2026. Estrella worked for the department for 18 years. He…
Joe Servin, retired plumber II
Joe Servin, a retired plumber II, passed away April 21, 2026. Services will be held April 28-29. He began his…
Jose Razo, retired correctional officer
Jose Razo, a retired correctional officer, passed away April 14, 2026. He worked for the department for 18 years. Razo…
CSP‑Sacramento mourns loss of Captain Cory Martincek
California State Prison-Sacramento is mourning the passing of Cory Martincek, a correctional captain who has been with the department for…
Centinela mourns passing of LVN Chima Onyebuizu
Centinela State Prison is mourning the April 10, 2026, passing of Licensed Vocational Nurse Chima Onyebuizu. Onyebuizu began his career…
Brian McCauley, retired correctional officer
Brian McCauley, a retired correctional officer, passed away April 5, 2026. McCauley began his career at with the department in…