Ronald S. Parker

Ronald S, Parker Athol – Ronald S. Parker, 78, of 360 Twichell Street, died Friday, February 3, 2012 at his home surrounded by his family.      Ron was born in Boston, Massachusetts, January 21,1934, the son of Royal L. and Mabel (Clark) Parker.  He has lived in Athol all of his life in the same house on Twichell Street, attended Athol High School and was raised by his aunt and uncle, Flora and Clifford Gray.      He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, driving armored personnel carriers.  Following his discharge he served with the Army National Guard.  Ron worked for the former Bachelder Oil Company for 36 years, retiring in 1996.  He also had his own painting and wallpapering business for many years.      Ron was a member of the Athol Congregational Church and the Franco American Naturalization Club.  He enjoyed fishing, going to car races, being a big NASCAR fan, trips to casinos which he donated to for many years.  Ron always had a twinkle in his beautiful blue eyes.   Most of all Ron was a dedicated family man with a great work ethic which he passed on to all of his children.        He leaves his wife of 52 years, Theresa (Landry) Parker; three sons, Jerry Parker and his wife Kelly of South Barre, Kevin Parker and his wife Kristina of Fitzwilliam, NH and Scott Parker and his friend Jenn Harney of Athol; a daughter, Laurel Kessler and her friend Thomas Pace of Athol; six grandchildren, Naomi, Lisa, Seth, Jaime, Nicholas and Clayton; seven great grandchildren; his dogs and best friends, Mia, Duellie and Angus.  He was predeceased by three brothers, Royal, Dane and Eugene and two sisters, Lois & Betty.  Ron was always so grateful for his special caregivers, Naomi and Nicholas.      Funeral services will be held  Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 2:00 p.m. at Higgins-O’Connor Funeral Home, 146 Main St., Athol with the Rev. Dr. Beverly Prestwood-Taylor, pastor of the Athol Congregational Church officiating.  There will be a calling hour from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service.  A private burial will be held at the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon.   In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions be made to the Athol Corps of the Salvation Army, 107 Ridge Avenue, Athol, MA 01331.   For further information or to share a memory with the family go to: www.higginsoconnorfuneralhome.com. $(document).ready(function(){ });