James “Bozo” Cordova, founder of the Route 66 Auto Museum in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, and a longtime mechanic in that city, died on Saturday. He was 77.
According to his obituary, Cordova, as a youth, began working at various gas stations along Route 66 in Santa Rosa.
After graduating from high school, he attended a mechanic trade school in Arizona.
Cordova worked for Lee Cordova Chevrolet in Santa Rosa and by 1981 established his own businesses—Bozo’s Garage and Wrecker Towing.
In 2000, he opened “his pride and joy,” the popular Route 66 Auto Museum. He later developed his garage into Bozo’s Garage and Restoration Shop.
“Bozo was a member of various car clubs, the Santa Rosa Street Rodders,” the obituary read. “He enjoyed drag racing in the 1970s and boating. However, Bozo will be particularly remembered for the love and devotion he had for his family and his Thirsty Thursdays with Chicharrones — where he cooked for his entire crew.”
The New Mexico Route 66 Association stated in a Facebook post on Sunday:
Bozo’s vibrant spirit and infectious enthusiasm for life left an indelible mark on everyone he met. His unwavering commitment to preserving the legacy of vintage automobiles and Route 66 was evident in every aspect of his work. He took great pride in sharing the stories and memories that made this iconic highway a cherished part of American history, inspiring others to appreciate the beauty of the journey.
As a supportive partner to Anna, who serves as a board member of the Association, Bozo was a steadfast presence in the community, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a laugh. His kindness and generosity will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A few video of Cordova are out there, but my favorite is this one produced a few years ago by New Mexico Tourism. His segment begins around the 2:15 mark.
Cordova was preceded in death by his parents, one son, one granddaughter and several siblings.
Visitation will be from noon to 4 p.m. Friday at Chavez Funeral Home in Santa Rosa.
Recitation of the Rosary will take place at 6 p.m. on Friday at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Santa Rosa.
The funeral will be at 10 a.m.Saturday at Santa Rosa High School Gymnasium in Santa Rosa, with the Rev. Sotero Sena officiating.
Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in the Cordova family plot.
Chavez Funeral Home of Santa Rosa is in charge of arrangements.
(Screen-capture image of James “Bozo” Cordova from a Visit New Mexico video)