Stanley William Lung

Stanley William Lung returned to his eternal home surrounded by his family on May 3, 2017. Stanley was born in Fresno, CA on December 14, 1930. He attended Roosevelt High School. As a boy, he worked alongside his father at their grocery store and loved to play his accordion and the saxophone at "The Shack".

Stanley joined the United States Navy at age 17. He served as a radarman on the USS Pelican, a minesweeper, during the Korean Conflict. The gravity and impact of his service was not taken lightly, by his family or by himself. This fact was never more evident than with the pride and joy shown by all who loved him as he toured one last time with the Honor Flight this last October.

When he returned home from the Navy, he married and was blessed with three children - Karen, Stephen and Craig. He later married again, adding daughters Deborah and Michelle. In addition to his five children, he was adored by his 14 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Though Stanley would never be labeled an emotional man, he poured his love out in many ways. That tremendous love wrapped in his serious personality might not always have been recognized, especially by the 3-year-old granddaughter who coined his nickname “Grandpa Grouch".

Stan spent 44 years at The Fresno Bee, early on as a printer and then as a display ad salesman. He was very devoted to the McClatchy Company. Stan's heart and soul belonged to the "cabin" at Bass Lake, a gathering place where Stanley reigned as patriarch. He was never more content than when he was sitting in his captain's chair on the party barge, swaying to the rhythm of Tom T. Hall over the hum of the engine. He was very protective of his "dock life”, earning the title "Sheriff of the Docks".

In retirement Stan and Barbara lived, and lived well. They traveled, cruised, cared for their dogs, their children and spent many hours enjoying wine. They became avid square dancers, a fact his grandchildren relished as they thought about their grandpa dressed to the nines. They were also active with the Elks Lodge. They built a community of friendship that has lasted for many years.

Stan left a legacy of love, laughter and life. Though our hearts are heavy, we remember him cruising the waters of Bass Lake he loved so much.

A Memorial Service will be held at Oakhurst Lutheran Church, 39255 Black Road, Oakhurst, CA 93644, on Friday, May 12, 2017, at 12:00 noon.