Commander Richard C. Parker, Jr., United States Navy Retired, 96, Scranton, passed away Wednesday morning in the Geisinger Community Medical Center. His wife, the former Marie Civiletti passed away December 1, 2008.
Born January 12, 1920 in Scranton he was the son of the late Richard C., Sr. and Helen Gould Parker. He was a graduate of Scranton Central High School and the Merchant Marine Academy in New York. He was a lifelong and devoted member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, in Scranton where he had served as Senior Warden as well as a Union Lodge F&AM Lodge 291 where he was a 70 year member. Upon Dick’s graduation from the Merchant Marine Academy he began a long and storied career in the United States Navy. After his Naval career Dick went on to work for Capitol Records where he was Chief Plant Engineer.
Through his 26 year career he served in many capacities among them being the Chief Engineer of several ships at one time, administrative roles for various ships as well as serving as the Chief Engineer on the USS Strong (DD-758). A combat war veteran, Dick served our country during World War II and the Korean Conflict. Upon his honorable discharge from active duty Commander Parker continued his service by acting as the Commanding Officer at the United States Navy Reserve Post in Dunmore.
Surviving are his daughters Michele Walsh and her husband Gary of Dalton and Patrice Clark and her husband Robert of Nicholson; sons Wayne and Wesley of Dickson City and Randall of Dunmore; grandchildren Dylan Walsh and Piper Clark; a brother in law Warren Grill; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sister Jean Grill and daughter in law Mary Catherine Parker.
Funeral services will be held Monday at 10am in St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 232 Wyoming Ave. Scranton.
Friends may call Sunday from 2-4pm in the Vanston and James Funeral Home 1401 Ash St. Scranton, Pa. 18510.
Masonic services will be held Sunday at 3:45pm.
Interment, Abington Hills Cemetery.
Olivia Joorman
Dear Michele and Family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your father. A very sad and difficult time for you all. Stay strong and cherish the memories of a life well-lived and well-loved. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Best regards,
Olivia
Frank Koczwara, South Carolina
Dear Patrice and Family:
I am saddened to hear about the loss of your father. He had a nice long life filled with many great experiences. You must be very proud of his many accomplishments and his service to our country. Upon meeting him for the very first time, I immediately enjoyed his company and sense of humor. He always had something funny to say or add to the conversation. I hope you find love and comfort among family and loved ones. May God grace shine upon and give you comfort during these difficult times. I want you to know I am thinking about you. Mr. Frank