Photo: Cal was the volunteer public address announcer for football, basketball, and seen here doing baseball in the press box that bears his name
On Sunday evening we lost a legendary friend in Cal Cordes. Born in Prescott’s Mercy Hospital in 1926, Cal lived for 98 years, one month, and five days. He loved life and what a run he had. He was a walking history book for many of us, which made a lot of sense because Cal spent a majority his life teaching and coaching. The impact he had on so many lives is more than commendable.
Like most people who met him, he was quick to give you a handshake and make you feel right at home. That is what he did for me when I moved to Prescott in 2010.
I was just getting involved with Prescott High School sports and was asked to assist at the scorers table for a varsity basketball game. I sat down and right then and there I met Cal. He said, “Howdy, I’m Cal Cordes and who are you?” I did not realize it at the time, but I just made what would turn out to be a tremendous friend.
From that point forward we would not only see each other at the games, but would over time get together for meals and road trips. The other plus for me was that Cal knew everybody. At least that seemed to be the case.
Seemed like it didn’t matter where we were, there was always a good bet that someone would come up to say hello to Cal. I knew that I had stumbled upon some local treasure, as he introduced me to many of his friends, who I would become friends with as well.
For a few years, the Posse, which I named our group, included past members such as Tom Gammill, and Wayne Boll, would meet for D-back specials at Taco Bell. We did that for six years straight till they pulled the plug on it after the 2023 season. It wasn’t so much about the cheap eats, but to gather and visit. Cal was by far the “King of Storytelling”, and even if you heard the same story before, it was still enlightening to hear his tales, and his jokes.
Photo: Cal Cordes supported and loved his Prescott Badgers
Cal loved his Badgers! I would be willing to bet that he attended more than 2,500 games in his lifetime. At the games he liked to hand out Pay Day candy bars. It seemed like he had stock in the company, because they would show up all the time. His name is proudly displayed on the press box at the baseball field which is a perfect reminder of his dedication to Prescott High School.
The Mile Hi Horseshoe Club was started by Cal with tournaments still going on out at Watson Lake. He was a winner pitching horseshoes and as a bowler as well.
Photo: The Prescott High School press box at the baseball field
I recently asked Cal what he thought of about his life and he said the word he would use is “Thankful.” Then he added, “ I have had a good life. I had parents who loved me and raised me right. They taught me right from wrong. They taught me how to work and be helpful. I have done a lot of things over the years and thankful that I was able to do those things. I’m also thankful for my family and that I was able to have so many good friends over the years and be a volunteer to my community.”
As I close, I am reminded of the similarities of Cal and my father and knowing him was sure a pleasure. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends, and a community he called home. Anybody who knew him is better off today and that is what a legacy is all about.
My hope is that we can all be a little more like Cal by showing a little kindness, respect, friendship, along with some common sense, and share some good stories as we go on with our lives.
A Celebration of Life to honor Cal will be held. A place and time is pending.
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6 thoughts on “Remembering Cal Cordes: The Impact of a friend”
A wonderful story of a true pioneer. I would think he knew Charlot Hall the hailed woman who wrote President Teddy Roosevelt and ask him to create the Arizona Territory out of the New Mexico Territory. And he did! We have come a long way from those days but as for the family of close loving-character building, no so much as when Cal was a youngster. I tiered up as I read this story of Cal Cordes for the man he was and all he did for the community he loved.
I worked at Prescott Samaritan Village in the 1990s, and Cal volunteered every day to drive seniors to and from appointments, etc. Everyone liked him.
Was proud to have bowled with a true gentleman. Our sponsor for years was Action Graphics we won the city tournament in 1998 and 2002.Always had a smile and loved to talk about his upbringing in and around Cordes,his time as a coach and his family. My condolences to the family
What a fine legacy….rest in peace.
One of the “Good ol’ Boys”.
I was blessed to have known this pillar of a man.
I bought a car from him that belonged to his wife. Cal was a fare man and gave me a good deal.
Prayers and thoughts go out to his family.
Cal was a great guy and friend. My mom Shirlee lived down the hall from Cal at the Good Sam apartments. they had a special close relationship going to the same college in Greeley Colorado at about the same time and they were similar in the amazing lives they lived. The greatest generation.
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