John B. Park

John B. (Bascum) Park, age 94, passed away at home surrounded by his wife and family on August 13, 2014. He was born on August 19, 1919 in Ocoee, Tennessee to Joseph E. Park and Minnie Prince Park. He moved to Vero Beach when he was 6 years old. He graduated from Vero Beach High School in 1938 and worked as Assistant Manager at the Florida Theater. He managed Berggren’s Variety Store in Fort Pierce before joining the U.S. Army Air Corp in 1942 where he served for four years. Following his discharge he and his wife, Audrey, became owners of Berggrens in Fort Pierce and later Park’s Rental. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Audrey Berggren Park, son, Kirby Park and wife Cathy, daughters, Lynn Park Kerby and husband, Steve, Sandy Park Picano, Jodee Park Lyda, and husband, Mark, 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He is predeceased by son-in-law Michael Picano, grandson Dennis Midgette, Jr. and sister, Joel Deen Park Fresh.

John B. spent many years serving St. Lucie County and the youth of St. Lucie County were his priority. He served as President of the St. Lucie County Recreation Board serving two different terms during the eighteen years he served on the board. He was a member of the Junior Chamber of Commerce during which time he was named “Man of the Year” and later a member of the Chamber of Commerce. He was a member of the Rotary Club and served as President. He coached the Rotary Little League for 14 years and his team won the American League Championship.

He received recognition from the National Recreation Board for his work in the community. The Lions Club named him “Man of the Year.” He helped implement the Sandy Shoes Festival and served on the board for many years. He was named permanent chairman of the 7-man Lawnwood Baseball Committee prior to the city taking it over. The Veterans of Foreign War presented him an award for Outstanding Service to the Community. He was a member of the Westside Baptist Church.

During his years in politics he campaigned for Governors Dan McCarty and Leroy Collins and Senator Spessard Holland. He served on the St. Lucie County Commission for 16 years during which time the County Administration Building, the Civic Center and the Community Center were built and dedicated. He was instrumental in the development of the Lawnwood Sport Complex which is named in his honor.

After retiring from politics, John B. spent his time building a cabin in North Carolina and restoring a 1930 Model A automobile.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the St. Lucie Little League or Hospice of the Treasure Coast.