""All his values about uplifting all groups in society had some deep roots in his own background. He believed average people should be able to get to work. He believed people should have access to health care. He believed in regreening the valley. He was a nurturer.""
"Diridon lived a life that spanned the Golden State in unique and fabled ways. He grew up in the shadow of Mt. Shasta and learned to fish near the headwaters of the Sacramento River, where he'd catch the daily trout limit and provide for neighbors in his poor mountain town."
"After two combat tours in Vietnam and an analyst stint at Lockheed Missiles and Space Company in Sunnyvale, Diridon got his political start as Saratoga's youngest ever councilmember in 1973."
"Upon Diridon's election to the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors, he campaigned for the revival of public transportation at a time when buses and trolleys were declining."
Rod Diridon Sr. passed away at age 87 due to sepsis and cancer. He was a pivotal figure in Santa Clara County's transit system, advocating for access to work and healthcare. Born to Italian American immigrants, Diridon's early life in Northern California influenced his commitment to community service. He served as a county supervisor and was instrumental in reviving public transportation. His legacy includes the namesake of San Jose's main train station and a dedication to uplifting all societal groups.
Read at San Jose Spotlight
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