Jerald Waldo Mason

Estella Mason (Rankin) on May 27,1942. He passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones on February

21, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents (Waldo and Virginia), and his brothers (Ralph, Don,

and Kenneth).

He grew up the youngest of four boys (Ralph and Don (Newton), and Kenneth Mason). He

graduated from Bakersfield High school in 1960. He enlisted in the United States Air force in 1961 and

served in the Vietnam war until 1964, then placed on reserve until 1967. When stationed at Travis air

force base, he met his first wife Norma Mason (Mills), married 1964-1986. They decided to move back to

his hometown of Bakersfield and took a job working for Pepsi. They had 3 daughters (Cindy, Laura, and

Becky). He worked various positions for Pepsi, including a manager's position which came with a move to

Tehachapi as well as Mojave then back to Bakersfield. Once back, he ventured into entrepreneurship

running his own Catering truck. In 1981 he was offered a Management position for RC cola, leading us to

move to Visalia.

Time in Visalia brought many happy memories, including most weekends spent traveling to swim

meets around the valley. He loved watching his children in competition. He would encourage us to make

goals and work hard to obtain them. Usually cheering us on from a far, never with any harsh words when

we were unsuccessful in obtaining our goals. Just positive feedback for the next race. He did not brag but

saw potential in us and encouraged us to keep working hard.He was a great dad, a great “girl dad”. A title

he earned long before that phrase was coined.

In 1986 saw many changes including the dissolution of his marriage, and a new job opportunity.

Settling back in Bakersfield he began working for Advanced Beverage (Budweiser) 1986-2007. Not long

after his move back home he met Jill Bassett. On February 22nd,1988 they were married in San Luis

Obispo. Combining two families wasn't easy, but they found a way to make it work. These years brought

many good times and many more fond memories. Some of the best times he had were having his kids,

grandkids, and other family visit..

Dad enjoyed life after retirement by doing what he loved. Bringing back memories of his late teen

years. He bought a car for drag racing. Spending hours rebuilding his car so it was suitable for racing.He

raced for many years and even won first place at a Fermoso raceway. He enjoyed the competition, as

well as the many friendships he acquired over the years. His other love was spending time at the coast in

Cayucos, camping with family. Enjoying the beautiful weather, fishing, and watching his grandkids having

fun at the beach.He was an avid reader as seen by the many books that filled the house. He was an

American Veteran, who proudly flew a flag year around. He was mostly a quiet person, but loved to

discuss subjects about politics, religion, and everyday affairs. He loved to tell stories about his family and

the “good old days”. These times will be the ones that will be sorely missed by all.

We know God had a plan for Jerry’s life, but we feel he left this world too soon for those who

loved him. He left a large family behind, including his wife Jill Mason. Daughter’s Becky Vieira (Frank),

Laura Densford (Shawn), Cindy Gezzer (Paul). Kim Wright (Jeromey), Russell Hudson (Lisa).

Grandchildren,Bobby Hudson (Gabby) Amanda Shelley,Parick Sierra ,Jared Irby (Brittnee), Roxanne

Morrell (Robert), Brandy Vasquez (Zach) Jerrica Parsons (Jonathan), Zack Wilson, Nicole Briones (Jose),

Daneka Vieira(Grant), Grace Shelley, and Frankie Vieira. Great grandchildren, (Lane & Avery, Bella,Lily &

Lil Russell, Presley, Dax, Krew, Nova & Marley, Kinley & Malia), and his dog Blossom.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on March 29th @ 2 PM at a private residence. For more

information please reach out to the family. His final resting place will be Bakersfield National Cemetery in

Arvin, Ca with full military honors. Services will be held on May14th @ 2 PM. Please feel free to join us as

we honor him on his final journey.