Wendell Earl Park

Long-time San Benito County resident Wendell Earl Park died
Saturday, July 26, in Ventura at the age of 78.
Wendell Earl Park

Long-time San Benito County resident Wendell Earl Park died Saturday, July 26, in Ventura at the age of 78.

Park served in the U.S. Navy in the South Pacific during World War II. He then moved to Tres Pinos with his family and graduated from San Benito Junior College. Park would go on to become a grading and paving contractor and, later, work with Thomas Orchards, Inc. in Hollister growing and drying apricots. He became vice president of the business and remained active in its operations until he died.

Park earned his pilot’s license and loved to fly, as well as boating, water skiing, fishing and reading fiction.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Anna May Park; children Wendy and Mark Zirbel of Ventura and Shelley and Ken Nabal of Santa Cruz; sister Earlene O’Donnell of Santa Cruz; brother-in-law Dan Thomas of Hollister; and grandchildren Brian and Lauren Zirbel and Dane and Ian Nabal.

A private graveside service will take place at a later date. The Grunnagle-Ament-Nelson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made in the name of Earl Park to the Hazel Hawkins Foundation or the charity of donor’s choice.