Vernon Richard McDonell

1929 - 2010

Vernon Richard McDonell July 25, 1929 - December 4, 2010 Vernon was born in Porterville, CA to Charlie and Rachel McDonell and passed away in Bakersfield, CA with his family at his side. Vernon was raised in the mountains around White River, CA where his favorite memories were of playing with his 4 brothers, 2 sisters and numerous cousins. He attended school in a one room school house at Jack Ranch, CA until the family moved to Porterville where he attended high school. At age 17, Vern enlisted in the U.S. Navy and began a 35 year career as a Seabee. Vern retired as a Master Chief (E9), which remained one of his proudest accomplishments. Vernon married Mary Ann Pardue in 1947 in Memphis, TN and they moved to Bakersfield where he began a 30+ year career with the State of California Division of Highways as a highway inspector. In 1985, Vernon married Annie "Lou" Moberg and they enjoyed many years of traveling in their trailer and camping with their large extended family. Vernon was Past Master of Libertas Masonic Lodge, a member of the Scottish Rite, and Al-Malaikah Shriners. Vernon leaves behind his wife, Lou; daughters, Vyn Wayne (Ron) and Holly McDonell; step-daughter, Becky Eidenshink (Bryan); step-son, Leonard Moberg (Debbie); 9 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. A special thanks to Dr. Amir Berjis, Dr. Ravi Patel, Dr. Muhammad Ashraf-Alim and the staff at CBCC for their care of both Dad and our family during this difficult time. A Celebration of Life will be held at the Unity of Bakersfield (2001 Truxtun Avenue) on Friday, December 10, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. Basham Funeral Care www.bakersfield.com/obits