Harrell Jess Coonce

Harrell Coonce bravely fought a seven year battle with bone marrow cancer but never woke up on April 3, 2014. He lived day to day after his diagnosis enjoying life and doing the activities he loved such as fishing and always being in the outdoors. He left a legacy with his children and grandchildren to love fishing, camping, hunting, and enjoying God's creation.

He was born on January 28, 1941 to the late Jess and Lois Coonce in Mesa, Arizona. Harrell is survived by his wife Marlene Coonce, sons Keith Coonce (Cindy), Gary Coonce (Nadine), and Donny Coonce(Rhonda), step-son Matthew Bailey (Robin) and step-daughter Jennifer Lawrence (Chris). Grandchildren Brandon Coonce (Michele), Trevor Coonce (Katy), Levi, Weston, Tiana, Averi, Chloe and Channing Coonce, and Cody, Graydon and Alexie Coonce, and Jeffrey, Blake, Kelsey and Aaron Coonce, Liz and Victoria Sanfilippo, and Jacob, Samantha and Joseph Lawrence, and great-granddaughter Mya Coonce, mother-in-law Irene Olsen, siblings Lenora Dayton, Florene Busby, Lorene Mc Millen, and Mart Coonce. Preceded in death by Warren, Ray, Farrell and Butch Coonce, Vera Webb, Bertha Hammonds, and Carol Coonce.

Harrell moved to California as a young child with his family and resided in the Modesto area ever since. He attended Modesto High School and went on to work in the lumber, and Ag industry, and driving a truck. His greatest joy was spending a day on the lake fishing with his friends and family, hunting and horse pack trips in the mountains.

He attended Hughson Methodist Church and enjoyed Sunday lunch at the Fruit Yard with his many friends and family. Harrell was always one to stop and strike up a conversation with those around him, making friends along life's path. One always remembers his wit and smile while he told his favorite stories about his life's passions.

A small burial will be Sat., April 12, 2014 at 10am, with a Celebration of Life Memorial service following at 11am at Lakewood Memorial Park. There will be a reception following at the Denair Community Center.

After Harrell's diagnosis he was treated by the City of Hope Hospital in Duarte, Ca. This bone marrow transplant treatment blessed him with many additional years of life to enjoy. Memorial donations can be made in Harrell's name to The City of Hope, PO Box 60409, Los Angeles, CA 90060, or to Community Hospice, 4368 Spyres Way, Modesto, CA 95356.