STEVEN LEON STAKER

April 9, 1959 – April 8, 2024

Bakersfield – With hearts both heavy and full of gratitude, we bid farewell to Steven 'Stump' Staker, who passed away peacefully on April 8, 2024, under the shadow of a total solar eclipse–a celestial event as rare and remarkable as his journey on this Earth. Born on April 9, 1959, in Kern County to Sharon Griggs and Harold Staker, Steven's life was a testament to resilience, boundless joy, and laughter that resonated far beyond the spaces he occupied.

Steven found his soulmate in Kathleen in 1983, and together they nurtured a loving family, including their children Misty, Joleen and her spouse Steven, Nathan and his spouse Nicole, and Brent and his spouse Ashton. His role as a devoted father and grandfather to ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren was a source of immense pride and happiness.

Steven dedicated over 40 years of his life to Johnston Farms, where his journey from a forklift operator and mechanic to a respected foreman tells a story of unwavering dedication, hard work, and natural leadership. Beyond his professional achievements, his true legacy at Johnston Farms lies in the long-term friendships he cultivated. His colleagues were not just coworkers but became part of an extended family.

Steven also took the opportunity to pass on his strong work ethic to his children, nieces, and nephews by having them work at Johnston Farms during their high school summers. This wasn't just a chance for them to earn their own money; it was a valuable life lesson. Under Steven's guidance, they learned not just about the work at the farm but about responsibility, dedication, and the importance of hard work. Beyond his professional achievements, Steven's love for the great outdoors, motorcycles, fishing, and camping was evident in the joy he found in these activities. He cherished the times spent at Pismo Beach, Rock Creek Lake, and Tom's Place, often in the company of friends and family. His Choctaw heritage was a cornerstone of his identity, celebrated through participation in powwows and cultural events.

Steven's courageous battle with cancer was met with the same bravery and optimism that defined his life. His warmth and love extended beyond his immediate family, creating lasting bonds with his cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews in the Duncan, Griggs, and Hunt families, as well as cherished family friends. These friends, akin to members of our extended family, shared in our joys and sorrows, embodying the spirit of community that Steven valued so deeply. His relationships, marked by deep affection and mutual respect, enriched his life with beautiful memories and moments shared, leaving a legacy of love that continues to inspire us all.

We invite all who loved him to join us in a celebration of his life on April 13, 2024, at Daybreak Baptist Church, 5446 Taft Hwy, Bakersfield, CA 93313-9745, United States, starting at 3:00 pm. We will gather to honor Steven's luminous spirit, remembering how he, like the eclipse, was a rare and beautiful phenomenon in our lives.

www.bakersfield.com/obits