Jack D. Henslee

JACK D. HENSLEE

August 17, 1926 - March 18, 2023

Jack D. Henslee, a devout follower of Christ, went to be with his Lord and Savior, on March 18, 2023. He started his earthly journey on August 17, 1926, in Abilene, Texas, moving to Bakersfield, California with his family at a young age. A student at Kern County Union High School, Jack left his studies at 17 to enlist in the United States Navy. He proudly served for 3 years during WWII on a sub chaser in the South Pacific.

During his service time in San Diego, Jack met the love of his life, Evelyn. They shared a strong bond through good times and bad, thick and thin, never wavering the support they shared with each other for over 60 years, Admiration and respect for each other was the driving force behind such a successful union. Even as Evelyn passed on to be with her Lord and Savior in July of 2010, Jack knew in his heart that he would one day be reunited with Him and her.

Motor City GMC became Jack's second home with his customers and fellow employees becoming like family. His honesty, integrity and knowledge of his product drew his customers back to him time and time again. During this time, Jack started and ran a trucking business for several years named Jacque's Houce. After a devoted 56 years at Motor City, Jack retired in October of 2007 to care for his beloved Evelyn.

Jack became a Freemason in 1959 and was initiated into Meudell Lodge #695. During his many years as an active member, he served as Worshipful Master twice. He truly enjoyed this brotherhood for over 60 years. During this time Jack accepted the challenging position of becoming Chapter Dad of Bakersfield Chapter of the Order of DeMolay. Thrown into the midst of guiding a group of mischievous teenage boys, he began to mentor, care for, and love them. These boys became yet another branch of his family, so much so that Saturday nights were open to one and all to come enjoy a homemade banana split or sundae made by Jack's wife, Evelyn. (As a side note, his two daughters didn't seem to mind the visits of the boys or their antics!) These young men truly held a very special place in his heart. Jack became involved in yet another Masonic organization, the Scottish Rite. The camaraderie he experienced with his fellow brothers brought him enormous joy in his later years. He was a 32 KCCH and 50 year member.

But more than anything else, Jack prided himself in being a servant of God. As each year went by, he studied the Word of God and was constantly working on becoming a better man. Milt Cole, a senior minister and teacher of the Prime Timers at Riverlakes Church, helped him in this journey.

This tribute to Jack Henslee would not be complete without mentioning the SNAZZY dress style this man had. He had suits, slacks, sports jackets, shirts and ties, ties and more ties like non other...not to mention his tremendous sock wardrobe. This clotheshorse had something for any and all occasions!

One of the highlights of Jack's later years was the humbling experience of having the honor of going on an Honor Flight back to Washington D.C. with many of his fellow World War II veterans. He had the pleasure of having one of his former DeMolay boys, Carl Stewart, act as his escort.

Preceding Jack in death were his loving wife, Evelyn, his mother and father, Erma and Mark Henslee, sisters Joyce Rae (Marvin), Patty Hasslebar (Kenny), Jimmy (Maebelle), Doc (Francis) and Bill Henslee, among other loved ones. Survivors include Leslie (Jim) Sawyer, Lynne (Gary) Killian, stepson David (Diane) Hamill, eight grandchildren, many great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Special caregivers Kathern and Heather (aka Hindforth) were angels sent from above to help care for our dad in the last leg of his earthly journey. They held his hand and showed overwhelming kindness, faith, and love in his final days, and he loved them dearly.

There will be a viewing on Wednesday, April 5, from 4 - 7 p.m. at Greenlawn Mortuary located at 3700 River Blvd. A service will be held Thursday, April 6, at 10 a.m. at the same location. Officiating the service will be Pastor Ken Alvis. A luncheon in Jack's honor will be held immediately after the ceremony at Wool Growers, located at 620 E. 19th St. All are invited and welcome.

In lieu of flowers, Jack would ask that you make a donation to the charity of your choice.

www.bakersfield.com/obits