Obituary of Lloyd Clair Ponciano Jr.
Lloyd Clair Ponciano, known to his loved ones as Ponch, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2024, at the age of 77 in Biggs, CA. He was born on March 2, 1946, in Gridley, CA, and was the son of the late Lloyd Ponciano Sr and Wanda Biles.
Ponch had a heart of gold and was known for his hard work, kindness, wit, genuineness, and loyalty. He had a successful career as a machinist, working for Hust Brothers in Marysville and later at Butte Auto Parts in Gridley. Ponch then became the manager of Gridley Warehouses, where he dedicated nearly 30 years of his life. In the late 80s, he ventured into the trucking business and started Ponciano Trucking, owning several tractor-trailer trucks. He retired from the trucking industry at the age of 68.
When Ponch wasn't working, he enjoyed pursuing his hobbies. He had a passion for fishing, hunting (especially bow hunting), and camping. He cherished spending time with his family up near Chester, CA. Ponch was also a lifelong fan of the San Francisco 49ers and passionately cheered on the San Francisco Giants.
Ponch is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Wanda Ponciano. He will be deeply missed by his daughter, Dustina Cordero of Marysville, son Robert Ponciano of Biggs, son-in-law Ramon, daughter-in-law Amber, grandson Kristofer Munsee of Yuba City, Haylee Stowe (Jordy) of Gridley, Chelsea Schroeder (DJ) of Yuba City, and Briar Ponciano of Biggs. Ponch was also proud to be the great-grandfather of one great-grandson, KC, and four great-granddaughters, Maycie, Karter, Ashton, Mallorie, and Magnolia. He is also survived by his brother Rick Ponciano and sisters Karan Clark, Sharon Ponciano, Debra Molloy, Pam St Clair, Tracy Cummins, and Shelly Taylor.
Ponch was preceded in death by his son Christopher Ponciano, mother Wanda Biles, sister Robin Ponciano, brother Gene Smith Jr, and his father Lloyd Ponciano Sr.
A memorial service to celebrate Ponch's life will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 10:00 am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at 400 Spruce Street, Gridley, CA. Following the service, a reception will take place at The Gridley Moose Lodge. The family warmly welcomes all who wish to pay their respects and honor Ponch's memory.
Ponch's legacy of hard work, kindness, and love for his family and community will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace.
Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.