Joe Ferguson Jr.

Joe loved drag racing and water skiing in his younger years. In the early 1960s he worked at three way Chevrolet. He had a black 54 Chevy that he drove in the drag races and he won several trophies with it. He also had his own boat that he loved to take out to go water skiing with.

He was an airplane mechanic for most of his life at Bakersfield Aviation and eventually became the owner of it in the late 1970s. He also built racing airplane engines. He built his first one, the Ciuchetton, for his lifelong friend John Putnam. In 1979, they raced it in Miami, Mojave & Reno and he was the crew chief for all the races. Later he built “The Strega” for Bill Destefani and was crew chief as well. Then he built “The Georgia Mae” for John Putnam and was once again the crew chief.

Joe was an avid golfer for many years and he won many trophies. He loved hunting for deer and quail with his dog Duke, camping, three wheeling at the beach, travelling, and taking cruises.

Joe Ferguson Jr, 84, passed away peacefully in his home with his daughters by his side after his battle with cancer. He was born in Bakersfield at San Joaquin Hospital and he went to North High School. He was married to Sue Ferguson (Wilson) for 37 years until her passing. Then he was married to Monica (Brooks) Ferguson for 12 years until her passing.

Joe is survived by his son Rob Ferguson; daughters Robin Ferguson, Danon Albert, Andra Hunsaker; daughter-in-law Judy Ferguson; son-in-law Dave Albert; grandchildren Lauren Ferguson, Chandler Albert, Kiley Albert, Breanna Reyes, Taylor Reyes, Dalton Reyes, Dakota Reyes, Justice Ramirez, J.T. Ramirez; 5 great grandchildren; brother-in-law Bo Wilson, and Sister-in-law Peggy Wilson.

The family would like to give special thanks to Joe’s dear friend of many years, John Putnam. His help & support throughout Joe’s illness was invaluable. He made Joe’s life and final days much easier and filled with many stories of past memories and adventures. We would also like to thank Hoffman Hospice for all their help and compassion.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.hillcrestmemorial.com for the Ferguson family.