“Eddie Cortez was not only a dear friend, he was one of the best people I knew, and he was one of the best mayors Pomona has ever had.

“Eddie was the epitome of what a politician should be: Congenial, easy to work with, and with a willingness to listen to people.

“He would go the extra mile to help people resolve their problems – and he always did so with a smile on his face.

“A person like Eddie will be difficult, if not impossible to replace.

“I am saddened by his passing, and I regret the fact that he could not live longer and continue to lead this wonderful city of ours.

“Pomona is on its way to doing great things, and many of them are because of Eddie Cortez, my good friend.

“He will be missed by one and all, not just in Pomona but beyond.

“Eddie Cortez: Always with a smile.”