IPDG Rich Cervantes was born and raised in Bakersfield. He joined the Navy in 1966 and retired as a Chief Petty Officer in 1988. Post-Navy, he served four years in the correctional department for Ventura County and the State of California Youth Authority. He then worked for State Farm as a Claims Adjustor for 17 years, retiring in 2009.
Rich joined the Lions in 1999 and is extremely passionate in supporting its varied missions. He respects and appreciates everyone who volunteers and thoroughly enjoys the friendships with fellow Lions. He actively coordinates many club projects and has been instrumental in developing and managing the eye screening program for school children in Ventura County.
Rich served as President of his club in 2009-2010 and 2019-2020 and as Membership chair and director for 15 years. He has been District Zone Chair and Region Chair twice each, and most recently served as our District Governor. He has received numerous Lions’ awards including the 2020-2021 Lions Clubs International Leadership Medal, a progressive Melvin Jones, Club Lion of the Year twice, and an MD4 Excellence Award.
Rich has been married for more than 30 years to Lion Mary Jo Cervantes who is a charter member of the Camarillo Amber’s Light Lions Club. They have five children between them, 11 grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. They have called Camarillo home since 1990.