GLORIA KRINARD Sept. 11, 1934 – April 8, 2025.
Gloria Gay Krinard was born Sept. 11, 1934, in Alton, Illinois, to Albert Roger Krinard and Mamie McDanel Krinard. From a young age, Gloria embraced life with joy, curiosity, and determination—a spirit that carried her through a remarkable and adventure-filled journey.
After graduating from Alton High School, she pursued her love of physical movement and wellness at Christian College in Columbia, Missouri, where she studied Physical Education and swimming. Her passion for active living would become a lifelong hallmark. Following college, she married her first husband, Robert Sheldon, and together they made the leap from the Midwest to the vibrant Bay Area of California.
Gloria built a successful career as an executive secretary, starting at Philco-Ford and continuing to support leadership teams at various companies as she moved across California. Along the way, she developed treasured friendships that endured through the years—bonds built on laughter, loyalty, and a shared sense of adventure.
Never one to sit still, Gloria discovered a passion for auto racing during her time in California. She especially relished the thrill of cornering tight curves in a Porsche, an excitement that sparked her lifelong devotion to NASCAR—cheering faithfully for her favorite driver, Jimmie Johnson. Her adventurous streak didn’t stop on the ground; she also earned her wings, learning to pilot single-engine propeller planes and exploring the skies of the American West.
Gloria eventually settled in the scenic coastal town of Santa Barbara, where fate introduced her to Augustine “Augie” Kokinos. Their marriage brought not only love but also a new cultural dimension to her life, as she embraced the richness of Greek cuisine and traditions with enthusiasm.
Following Augie’s passing, Gloria moved to San Diego, where the Pacific Ocean and Southern California’s endless blue skies brought her peace and joy. She found deep contentment in swimming, especially in the ocean, and spent countless blissful days vacationing in Hawaii—her sanctuary beneath the banyan trees, laughing and reminiscing with dear friends. Her travels also took her across the globe, from the vibrant streets and jungles of Southeast Asia and the wonders of South America to the historic beauty of Greece.
In retirement, Gloria relocated to Mountain View, Arkansas, where she enjoyed cherished time with her brother Roger and sister-in-law Willough Dean Krinard. In 2005, she moved once more, this time to Los Alamos, New Mexico, to be closer to her beloved sister Jean Evanich and extended family.
Gloria quickly became a familiar and vibrant presence in Los Alamos. She served actively with the Hospital Auxiliary and the Walkup Aquatic Center Board, always eager to lend a hand and brighten someone’s day. She found community in her swimming therapy classes and joy in lively Bridge games. Gloria will be fondly remembered for her sparkling personality, her vivacious spirit, and her ever-charming collection of hats.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert and Mamie Krinard; her siblings, Jean Krinard Evanich and Roger Krinard; and her second husband, Augustine Kokinos.
Gloria leaves behind a loving family: her nieces Louise (Petr) Jandacek of Los Alamos, NM, and Sheila (John) O’Connor of Kenosha, Wisconsin; her nephew Chuck (Kathy) Evanich of Tampa, Florida; and many great-nieces and great-nephews who carry forward her legacy of warmth, curiosity, and zest for life.
In honor of Gloria’s love for animals, donations in her memory may be made to the Los Alamos Animal Shelter, 226 E. Rd, Los Alamos NM 87544—a cause close to her heart.