|
a.
|
Note: Ivan L. Coffman(1938 - 2017)Ivan Lovell CoffmanJuly 23, 1938 - September 29, 2017 Ivan L. Coffman was born in Weedpatch, California (yes, he really was born in Weedpatch!) to Nural and Lacie Coffman. He was the third son of five children who enjoyed the rural life of the farming communities of Lamont and Arvin. He attended Vineland School until the 7th grade when his folks moved to Las Cruces, NM. There he helped his dad after school in his auto repair business which began his lifelong love of cars and racing. It was the 1950's and Ivan was the epitome of the American Graffiti teenager, racing anything that had wheels and usually winning. Eventually he took racing to another level and became a legend in the racing communities of New Mexico and California. In 1969 he won the Pomona Winter Nationals in a top fuel dragster. News paper clippings refer to him as "Mr. Horsepower".
Ivan was a successful businessman. In Las Cruces he owned the Diagnostic Center. In 1990 he started Advanced Engine and Machine in Bakersfield which he oversaw until the time of his death and is now run by his step-son, Cody Allen.
Ivan had one beloved daughter, Cindy Coffman, with first wife, Maryann Casio. In 1991 he married Patti (Allen) Coffman and they built an amazing life together. They especially enjoyed Corvettes of Bakersfield where they found lifelong friends that share a common love for their cars. Over the years Ivan had many Corvettes but at his passing he was the proud owner of a "hot" 1969 black Corvette Convertible and a 2014 yellow C7 Corvette. In the car club community he was respected for his mechanical knowledge, wise counsel and friendship. Ivan belonged to Valley Baptist Church and in 2007 he made a public profession of faith and was baptized there. Based on this we have the confidence he is present with the Lord.
Ivan was preceded in death by his parents and brothers Jesse R. Coffman and Edwin Coffman. He is survived by his wife, Patti, daughter, Cindy Coffman, stepson Cody Allen (Ket), stepson Hays Allen (Amanda), five grandchildren: Cameron, Hayley, Lance, Luke and Catherine, sister MayeVern Casey (Marvin), brother Vurdes Coffman (Rose) and a whole passel of cousins, nieces and nephews.
A special thanks to Optimal Hospice, his caregivers and his daughter. Cindy, niece, DeeDee Shepherd, and step-son Cody Allen who gave him special care and attention to the very end.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Valley Baptist Church, 4800 Fruitvale Ave,) on Thursday, October 5, 2017 at 11:00am.
Arrangements are made at Mission Family Mortuary. Please consider making a donation to the National Kidney Foundation in Ivan's memory.
|
