Donald Keith Parker

On Saturday May 8, 2021, Donald Keith Parker, loving husband and father of five, passed away at the age of 73 surrounded by his wife and children.

Keith was born on August 29, 1947 at Ft. Meade, Maryland. Shortly after graduating High School, Keith was drafted to serve in Vietnam where he fought honorably, earning the Bronze Star with ‘valor’ device and purple heart. After returning from Vietnam, he worked at Gardner Equipment selling John Deere logging and industrial equipment for 25 years before retiring.

He dedicated his life to his wife and his children. No matter how busy he was, he never missed any event or important occasion that his children were apart of. He had a way of pushing everyone around him to do their best, despite any setbacks they faced.  He was the toughest, most loving man there was, taught us a lot about family, and the value of relationships. He always had a way of bringing out the best in all of us.

He was preceded in death by his mother June Parker, his father Martin Parker, his sisters Patti Morgan and Viola Staples, and longtime best friend Bill Irvin (survived by Judy Irvin). He is survived by his loving wife Denise Parker, five children: David Parker, Heather Stone, Melissa Leonard, Adam Parker, and Crystal Webb, and 16 grandchildren: Chase, Kyle, Victoria, Alex, Isabella, Colby, Cadence, Liam, Aidan, Ethan, Noah, Elizabeth, Caleb, Ryan, Lily, and a baby boy due in July 2021. He is also survived by siblings: Martin Parker Jr., Sandra Black, Walter Parker, Roger Parker, Virginia Ricketts, Margaret ‘Deeda’ Parker, Joe Parker, and Katherine ‘Bunny’ Howard.

Keith had a passion for history. He would spend countless hours reading military history books, and then calling his children to give his review of the book at 2 a.m. He was also the best weatherman out there, as he would always call his children to notify them of any severe weather, because he knew they didn’t watch the Weather Channel. He was also known for his quick wit, smile, and compassionate spirit. No matter the circumstance, he would always find a way to make everyone in the room laugh. Keith will live in our hearts and our memories forever. One thing everyone knew universally, was, that if you mess with his dog…he’ll whip your ass! He wasn’t afraid to stand his ground and let his opinions be known. The man really loved his first and second amendments. He also loved to use colorful language…you’re really gonna be f***in’ missed Dad!