Jean Ansolabehere 1939 - 2010 Jean "Manez" Ansolabehere was born on May 1, 1939 in Banca, France. He spent his first 17 years at Espila, his family's farm high in the Basque country of the French Pyrenees. He then served his country as a French military commando in the Algerian War and received medals of commendation for his service. In 1964, at the age of 24, he immigrated to the United States, arriving in San Francisco with $100 in his pocket. Within his first week, he began teaching himself English, his fourth language, and had two jobs. He married in 1970 and had two beautiful children, whom he loved greatly. He was a man with a strong work ethic, always working tirelessly to support his family. He worked in the Chino dairies for several years before finally arriving in Bakersfield, where he started a gardening business. He served many of the same customers for 25 years. Jean was a humble man who lived simply, and one of the most generous people we knew. He would give to anyone who was in need, even if it meant going without himself. He always had a mischievous gleam in his eye and a smart remark or a clever joke to make. It often seemed like he was waiting for the opportunity to get a comment in and make himself and those around him chuckle. He was active in the Basque community and enjoyed spending time with his friends playing Mus. He also spent time hunting and fishing and was a known pool shark at local haunts. He was a loving father, father-in-law, grandfather, uncle and brother. His 11 grandchildren brought him many years of joy, and he took great pleasure in spoiling them with treats and toys. They adored their "Papa." He leaves behind his son, Phillip, his wife Rossie, and their children Gabrielle, Abraham, Ezra, Isabelle, Sophie, and Canaan; his daughter, Marie-France, her husband Clint, and their children Clayton, Cade, Cal, Elle-Louise, and Kahaleana; his niece, Bernadette and her husband Kelley; his niece, Jane Marie; his sister-in-law, Marian; in France are his 9 sisters, brothers-in-law, numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He also had a few close friends who were so generous and kind to him during his long illness, and this will never be forgotten. Rosary followed by Mass will be held Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis Church, 900 H Street. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 9101 Kern Canyon Rd. Doughty-Calhoun-O'Meara www.bakersfield.com/obits
Published in Bakersfield Californian on August 31, 2010