Burnis Wade Gentry

Burnis Wade Gentry, 69, peacefully passed away on July 27 surrounded by his family after a courageous 7 week battle with brain cancer. He was born in Duke, Oklahoma on October 16, 1941. He moved to California when he was 2 years old. He graduated from North High School in 1960.

He is survived by his loving wife Elaine of 44 years, 2 daughters, Dawn (Wayde) Kirschenman and Lori Cottle, three grandchildren Tyler Kirschenman, Claire Kirschenman and Hayden Cottle, 4 brothers – Burley (Linda) Gentry of Purcell Oklahoma, Jack (Linda) Gentry, Ronnie Gentry, both of Bakersfield and Dennis (Wanda) Gentry of Oceano, two sisters, Jean (Wayne) Luna of Kingwood, Texas and Yvonne (Charles) Lester of Porterville. He was preceded in death by his parents Ludie and Ammie Gentry, brothers Melvin, Dwayne and Jim Gentry.

Most important in his life was family and home. He loved working in his yard and sharing the bounty from his wonderful garden. Some of his happiest times were spent fishing on the houseboat and camping in the RV with his brothers and friends. Burnis enjoyed spending time in his shop with his hot rods, carving pens and restoring antiques. He could fix anything and took pleasure in helping others. He worked at Travette Campers and was co-owner of Drifter Campers, then had his own gardening business for 30 years. He truly enjoyed family get-togethers, fish frys, eating at Sinaloa’s and breakfast at Spencer’s and keeping updated on the family’s activities. The grandkids were the light of his life and could always be counted on to make professional looking pinewood derby cars, putting bikes and toys together with perfection and love. He will be forever remembered and terribly missed by his family and all who knew him.

The family would like to thank Dr. Wei, Dr. Patel, nurse Tani and the staff of CBCC, the doctors and staff of Memorial Hospital, and the doctors and staff of Mercy Truxtun ICU for their compassionate care of Burnis throughout his treatment.

Visitation will be held Sunday, July 31, 2011 from 4-8 pm at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Services will be Tuesday, August 2, 2011 at 10 am at Hillcrest Memorial Chapel with graveside burial following the service.

If you have an old car or street rod, please bring it for a parade lap after the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Cancer Society – Kern County Unit, 1523 California Ave, 93304 or Grace Lutheran Church in memory of Burnis Gentry.