Harold Parker

Mr. Harold Parker, age 86 years, passed away to be with his Lord on Saturday, January 7, 2017 in Roseview Manor with family at his side. 

Harold was born on September 28, 1930 in Port Arthur to Ansel and Frances Parker. He was raised on the family farm in Gillies Township near Hymers. He was a man who loved the Lord, faithfully attending the Free Methodist Church, Westfort Baptist and later, Grace Church. Harold’s first job was in logging camps where he developed a lifelong love and respect for nature. He later worked for CP Rail, retiring in 1987 as a conductor.

Harold married Irma Liddicoat in 1954, they enjoyed sixty-two years together. Family was very important to Harold and Irma; countless camping and fishing trips were enjoyed with their children. Later, road trips to the east and west coast enriched family memories. Grandchildren were born to the family creating a new avenue for fun. Games of “bear trap” with Grandpa always produced excited laughter. 

Harold loved being outdoors and took every opportunity to enjoy his property in Gillies, building a log cabin as a retirement project. Many family gatherings took place “at the farm”, hiking around Grandpa’s mountain, skating on the pond and enjoying a meal together around the fireplace. He was also a sportsman, joining with friends to hunt moose for many years.

Harold is survived by his loving wife Irma; sons Melvin (Margie), Gordon (Karen) and daughter Marilyn Fitzpatrick (Wade). He leaves behind beloved grandchildren Leah McPhail (Branden), Julie McPhail (Carter), Mitchell and Melanie Parker, Alex (Jenna) and Scott Fitzpatrick; great grandchildren Abi and Eva McPhail and Tyler Fitzpatrick. Survived also by devoted siblings Gary (Betty), Ruth Wright and sister-in-law Leonore. 

Predeceased by his parents; siblings Lena Humphrey (Ralph) and Bob, also brother-in-law Gordon Wright. 

The family would like to thank Drs. P. DeBakker, C. Lai, R. Johnson and Rachel Stewart RN NP for their care and kindness. We are grateful to all the staff of Champlain House and Roseview Manor for the love and dedication shown to Dad during the last year; you have become family.

Funeral services for the late Mr. Harold Parker will be held on Thursday, January 12, 2017 at 11:30 a.m. in Grace Evangelical Free Church (289 Court St N.) with Pastor Don Gillett officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service time. Interment will take place in Riverside Cemetery, Hymers. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart & Stroke Foundation would be appreciated.