John Park

John E. Park of Coffeyville, passed away on Monday, January 31, 2011 at Labette Health in Parsons, Kansas he was 90. John was born on April 22, 1920 in Coffeyville, Kansas to Carroll and Emma Morrow Park. He grew up in the Coffeyville area where he received his education. On August 26, 1939 he was united in marriage to the love of his life Vada Gott in Coffeyville, Kansas. John served in the U.S. Navy from December of 1942 until October of 1945. He was a Carpenters Mate stationed in the South Pacific for 28 months, and was a part of the US Navy Seabee Construction Branch. On August 5, 1943 John was wounded in battle, and was awarded the Purple Heart. When he returned home, John worked numerous carpenter and construction jobs all over the country for 25 years. In 1960, he became a Letter Carrier for the U.S. Postal Service until his retirement in 1975. John was a member of the First Baptist Church in Coffeyville, Disabled American Veterans 33 in Coffeyville, Keystone Lodge 102, V.F.W. Post 1022 and was a supporter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation. John and Vada enjoyed participating in bowling leagues and traveling when they were younger. He especially enjoyed fishing and spending summers at the lakes. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Vada of the home daughter, Joyce Tesh and husband, Larry of Parsons, KS grandchildren, Debbie Morrow and Kenny Tesh both of Nashville, Tennessee. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carroll and Emma three brothers and one sister. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, February 3, 2011 at 2:00 pm at PenwellGabel FordWulfBruns Chapel in Coffeyville. Friends may call on Thursday, February 3, 2011 from 9:00 am until service time to sign the guest register. The family suggests memorial contributions can be made to the American Heart Association or a charity of their choice. These may be left with the funeral home.