Larry William Gamino

Larry William Gamino, was raised in Tracy and later became a pivotal member of the Tracy community. In his adolescent years he attended St. Bernards and later he graduated from Tracy High School. He received a scholarship and chose to attend Chico State. While attending Chico, he worked for the railroad during the summers. After 2 years he went to UC Berkeley where he received his Master's Degree of historical studies while continuing to work for the railroad. He retired from the Union Pacific after 30 years of service. He was a substitute teacher in the greater San Jose area before he returned to Tracy and became involved in numerous community offices. Larry was the President of the Tracy Historical Museum, he wrote the “Other side of the Tracks” column for the Tracy Press and he held a seat on the City Transportation Advisory Board. He was also the President of the Southside Community Center, under his leadership, the center was revived and has since been a pillar of the southside community of Tracy.

Larry’s love for the past never overshadowed his present. He found his traveling companion and wife Carolyn, at their 30 year high school reunion. Carolyn was drawn in by laughter within a large group of people and Larry was at the center. They married on the first day of Spring March 20th, 2008. They were fond of traveling and have been to Hawaii, Panama Canal, Canada and Mexico. They also took annual cross-country trips traveling via train. They often attended County Fairs and community theater. He had the same enthusiasm for history and culture as he did for community service. Often sharing the histories of the California migrant workers and the latest show he saw at the county fair. Larry was a fan of Star Trek and Berkeley Basketball and Football. Larry enjoyed listening to Carlos Santana, The Beatles and other classic rock of the 70’s. His cat Maya was a close companion for 15 years. 

He is survived by his wife Carolyn Gamino, his sister Kathy and brother-in-law David Otermat, his brother Eddie Gamino, and his sister, Irene Gamino. Also two nieces, Jenna, her husband Chris and Laurie. His parents Santos A. Gamino and Angelina M. Gamino preceded him in death. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, April 8, 20 at Fry Memorial Chapel, 550 South Central Avenue, Tracy. In lieu of Flowers, please donate to the Tracy Animal Shelter (Cat Center)

Chapel Services will be live streamed via his tribute page at www.frymemorialchapel.com for family & friends unable to attend. An online guest book is also available for condolences and special messages to the family.