Cryil Autry Conrad

Dr. Cyril A. "CY" Conrad passed away suddenly at his beloved home in Ranchita on January 8th, 2024 at 84 years of age. A long-time San Diego resident, Cy was best known as an avid classic automobile enthusiast and collector, and was involved in many automobile clubs and activities. Hi expertise in automobile standards and restoration was well respected, and he served as Judge and Chief Judge at a number of automobile venues. He was proud of his role as Chief Judge & Chief Judge Emeritus for the annual La Jolla Concours d'Elegance, a local production that has achieved world renown. He achieved his "bucket list" goal of serving as a judge for the Pebble Beach Concours in 2012. Cy loved mentoring novice judges and created a widely respected Concours Judging Manual. 

Cy loved motor vehicles of all sorts from and early age, and bought his first car, a 1928 Pontiac, at the age of 12 with money earned by delivering packages for a local clothing store. His favorite restoration project was the 1930 4 1/2 litre Bentley that he found in England and meticulously coaxed back to life, eventually racing it at the legendary Laguna Seca Raceway.

Cy was born in Great Falls, Montana and grew up in Bozeman. After High School graduation he joined the U.S. Navy and came to California, thus beginning his life-time love affair with San Diego. His educational path led through San Diego State University, Montana State University, Chapman College, and culminated in a Ph.D. from the United States International University in 1972.

Cy served as a Director of the Residence Educational Centers at Miramar Naval Air Station and George Air Force Base, and served as a Coordinator of Student Services for the World Campus Afloat program out of Chapman College, Orange County. Cy retired as Assistant Dean at Chapman College. Cy practiced as a licensed Marriage, Family and Child Counselor for many years.

Cy was an avid world traveler, and spent 2 "gap" years between his Bachelors and Masters studies in England, criss-crossing the country on a motorcycle with a guitar, playing folk songs at local pubs for cash, lodging and meals. True story. Cy's greatest gift was his genuine and limitless love of people. He had an irrepressible curiosity and desire to guide and help those he met. He made friends easily and had friends around the world. Some of his most cherished relationships include those with Mike Haynes, Ed Gilbertson, Pedro Meyer, Santos Guerra, Tony Handler, and Kevin Ellsworth.

Cy is survived by his wife of 15 years, Donna Daub Conrad, brother Terry Conrad of Galveston, Texas, sister Sue Ellington of Henderson, Nevada, nephews Clay & Calder Conrad, step-son Lee Daub and step-daughter Sarah Wellman.

Cy truly lived life on his own terms. He was larger than life and touched many lives. He was well loved and will be deeply missed.

Bonham Bros. & Stewart Mortuary and Cremation Service is assisting the family.

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