Clarence John Parenti

Clarence was born in Chicago, Illinois, but after one particular visit to family, he knew that Colorado was the place he wanted to live. The best way to define him, much more so in the last four years, is to tell of his strong determination, drive and faith in living up to his motto of “Keep Fighting.” The first thing he said when he was diagnosed with his cancer called Multiple Myeloma, was that he was going to beat this thing. He did just that, not just once by having a bone marrow transplant, but then a second time just last month. His heart though was too compromised.

Clarence started their business, Aspen Gold Kitchen Design in 1997 and continued designing as best he could up until he passed. For 17 years, he, Mary, and one of their many “long-time-friends” couple were a very active part of the Dog Unit of the Scottish/Irish Festival in Estes Park, where they so loved being a part of all that the Festival was. Clarence was grateful for the close friends he’d made through the years and was very loyal to them.

Clarence enjoyed “getting away from it all” by going camping with Mary and sometimes Erica too, in their RV. He and Mary much loved going to Keystone where they volunteered helping those “Oh my God, I can’t go down!” skiers during the ski season in years past, and he really missed being able to play racquetball. Clarence learned and shared a real love of nature from Mary who will miss so much those great times along with the love they shared together.

Clarence was very proud of his father who served in WWII, where he earned a Purple Heart. This spurred his patriotism and he greatly honored and supported the military and Veterans.

From his daughter Erica: My Dad was more than that to me, he was always there when I needed him. Thanks to him, I’m a really good cook. He was the strongest person I knew even when things looked really bad, he stayed so strong. I always enjoyed watching scary movies with him and will so miss going on our “just for fun” Walmart runs. We loved playing homemade “Gnocchi Football” when we cooked together. I always loved flying home because Dad was there with a smile and jokes along with a snack. It was more than just coming home to be with him, it was fun and adventure at every turn. The week I was here before he passed was some of the best times I’ve had with him. No words can I write that will express the loss I’m feeling and how much I’m going to miss my Dad. Every day with him was a blessing and not only did I lose my Dad, I lost one of my best friends. My little dog Stax loved him so much and we’ll both miss the wonderful times we shared. Rest in Peace Dad, God Bless your soul. I love you so very much and I will miss you endlessly.

Mary couldn’t have said it better.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Mary, his daughter Erica as well as their dogs, cats and bunny which he loved.