Eric Wendell Matlock

Eric Wendell Matlock was born April 28, 1949, in Bakersfield, California to parents Oliver and Ruby Matlock. He passed away at home on August 25, 2014, surrounded by friends and family while held in his wife’s arms. He waged a courageous battle against cancer. Eric attended schools in Bakersfield and Los Angeles, graduating from B.H.S. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration from CSUB. Later he was inducted into the first CSUB Hall of Fame that honors graduates of the university. Eric was a lifelong learner,.Being a well respected mentor- teacher, he enjoyed teaching at Westec. Sports were an important part of Eric’s life. As a young boy he played baseball and football. He also liked snow skiing. For many years he enjoyed running in the annual Law Enforcement Baker to Vegas, MDA and Police Memorial Runs. Golfing during his retirement was a special time in his life. He and Illene enjoyed many golf destinations. Eric was generous with his time and energy. During Eric’s tenure as a police officer he served on numerous committees and boards. He was an avid USC Trojan Football fan. Eric enjoyed watching their games in person as well as on T.V. Eric joined the Bakersfield Police Department in 1970. Later he became a detective, promoting through the ranks as a sergeant, lieutenant, captain, assistant chief and the last five years as chief of police, retiring in 2004. During that time he attended the FBI Academy. He is survived by his wife Illene. Also surviving are his father Oliver and his step-mother Arneta, his brother Steven (Pam) Matlock, his sister Tracey Hicks, and two daughters, Stacey and Korey, four grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and his brother-in-law David and sister-in-law Ellen Stout. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruby Hardgrow, sister Brenda, his grandparents Olive (Nana) and Wylie Matlock and earlier this year, his step-son Brian Sullivan. Viewing will be Wednesday, October 1st, from 6:00 to 8:00pm at Hillcrest Memorial Park. The funeral will be conducted on Thursday, October 2nd at 1:00pm, also at Hillcrest. His final resting place is the Living Christ Lawn. The family thanks CBCC, Dr. A. Cartmell, Dr. R. Waguespack and Dr. H. Brar for Eric’s care. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Police Activities League would be appreciated and may be sent to 301 E. 4th St., Bakersfield, CA 93307.