OSCAR ANTHONY PROCELL

December 14, 1931 – March 20, 2024

Oscar Anthony Procell was born December 14th, 1931, in Zwolle, Louisiana to Columbus and Minnie Procell who had blended their families. Oscar soon joined his older 4 siblings and later became the older brother to his sister Elaine. Oscar graduated from high school in Zwolle and then joined the Air Force where he served in Japan as military police from January 1951 until December 1954.

After his discharge, Oscar moved to Houston, Texas, and was accepted to the University of Houston on the GI Bill. It was here that he met the love of his life, Alberta Harns, and introduced himself as Willis - the name Alberta knew him by until just before they got their marriage certificate. He then decided that what he wanted to do was become a diesel mechanic so he switched majors and schools.

Once Oscar graduated, he and Alberta married on November 7th, 1958 in Houston, Texas. While in Houston, two children were born to the newlyweds. Friends invited them to come to Bakersfield, California to visit and while in Bakersfield Oscar applied to the Caterpillar dealership even though they weren't hiring at the time. One month later, Oscar signed a contract with Caterpillar, packed up his family, and settled in the Greenfield area. Upon settling in California, his family then expanded by three more children.

Oscar's career as a diesel mechanic at Quinn company spanned 36 years. During this time, Oscar was extremely active at the Sacred Heart Church by participating in the men's club, Knights of Columbus, singing in the choir, and was the unofficial handyman to provided maintenance on the church grounds/buildings.

Oscar's focus and enjoyment during his life was his family. The time he spent with his family on house projects or camping led to many other families becoming adopted sons and daughters. This large and extended family was able to be present and visit with Oscar during his last days while on hospice.

Oscar was preceded in death by his parents, his son Anthony, and his grandchildren Ciara, Joshua, and A.J. Oscar leaves behind his wife of 64 years Alberta, his sister Elaine Landry, his children Minnie Sue Booker, Mark (Maria) Procell, Nathan (Debbie) Procell, Gene (Norma) Procell, and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and adopted family.

Services will be held on Friday, April 12th, 2024 at 10:30am at Sacred Heart Church in Greenfield with burial to follow at the Bakersfield National Cemetery at 1:15pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

DOUGHTY-CALHOUN-O'MEARA FUNERAL DIRECTORS

www.bakersfield.com/obits