ELLA JEAN PARK

July 23, 1935 – December 10, 2023

Bakersfield – Ella Jean Park, known and loved as Jean, passed away at home on December 10, 2023 after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. Jean was born July 23, 1935 in Blue Island, Illinois. Her family moved to California in 1948. She was a graduate of Standard School and Bakersfield High School. There she played saxophone in the Driller Band and met the love of her life Carl. They were married December 30, 1955 and together raised two sons, enjoyed a lifetime of memories, and were partners through it all for nearly 68 years. Jean was proud of her career. Her work ethic, tenacity, and intelligence always shined no matter the job. She began work at age 15 at a local bakery. She said her favorite job was telephone operator in the late 50's because she could just plug in and be somewhere across the world. She was also the Secretary to the Chief Chemist at Hornkohl Labs. She later worked for the Kern County Sheriff's Department and then Kern County Personnel, where she retired after 21 years. As much as she loved working, she thoroughly enjoyed retirement and dedicated years to making a house a home and being present with those who loved her dearly. Jean was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to many. She loved spending time with five generations of family at their home in Baywood, purchased in 1962 with Carl and her parents. She found delight in family road trips, planning cruises, shopping as her favorite form of exercise, negotiating the best prices on everything, helping friends, planning high school and Navy ship reunions, and bringing game day snacks for the great-grands. Jean is survived by her husband Carl, her son Scott and “daughter” Lori Park; her granddaughters Kailan Carr and Kalli Beckwith and their husbands Ryan Carr and Ryan Beckwith; and great-grandchildren Leah and Hudson Carr and Dante and Andre Beckwith. She was preceded in death by her parents Merle and Viola Sudds; son Mark Park; and many beloved family and friends. At her request, there will be no funeral services. We'll celebrate Jean's beautiful life at a later date. Loving. Protective. Savvy. Smart. Stylish. Fun. Remembered always. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Erica Manrriquez, the kind staff at CBCC, and everyone at Hoffmann Hospice and Palliative Care.