Nelson Churchill Parker

Nelson Churchill Parker was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and wonderful friend throughout his incredible 93 years. Nelson passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, February 12th, 2026, in Henrietta, New York.

Nelson was born on March 9th, 1932, to Doris Ethel Churchill Parker and Desmond Alton Parker in Lyons, NY. At home, Nelson and his older brother, David Parker, spoke sign language with their deaf parents. Nelson’s friend, Gilbert "Bunk" Taber, was one month older than Nelson and lived right down the street. Nelson and Gilbert grew up together in Clyde, NY, were best friends, and remained lifelong friends.

After graduating from Clyde Central School in 1949, Nelson joined the army at age 17, which required his father's signature. Nelson honorably served in the 351st Infantry, K Company, as a corporal for three and a half years during the Korean War, including service in Trieste, Italy. Nelson was incredibly proud of his service in the army and was always willing to share his amazing stories.

After the army, Nelson studied at the New York State Agricultural and Technical Institute at Morrisville and worked at Jackson & Perkins, breeding roses and learning horticulture. Nelson left college and held various jobs until he was hired at the Eastman Kodak Company. His primary job was as a roll coater. In November 1986, after 30 years and 6 months, Nelson retired from Kodak.

After college, Nelson met the love of his life, Florence Eleanor Kimball. He was introduced to her through an army buddy, Robert Moffitt, who married Florence's sister, Carolyn Kimball. On August 20, 1955, Nelson married Florence at the Mendon Presbyterian Church in New York. Nelson and Florence lived in Mendon, New York, and had five children: Steven, Patricia, Dianne, Jennifer, and Robert.

Nelson and Florence were dedicated members and held office with the American Legion Falls Post 664 in Honeoye Falls, NY. Nelson held the offices of treasurer, secretary, vice commander, and commander. Florence held offices in the Ladies Auxiliary.

The house was always busy with seven people and many pets. In the summer, Nelson and Florence would bring the children to Florence’s parents, Marvin and Elma Kimball's farm, where they worked picking strawberries, raspberries, and other vegetables.

After both retired and the children moved out, Nelson and Florence moved to Lakeville, NY. They enjoyed time with friends and family on their pontoon boat on Conesus Lake. For several years, Nelson and Florence traveled between Punta Gorda, Florida, and Lakeville, NY, visiting with friends along the journey. They eventually moved full-time to Punta Gorda, Florida. While in Florida, they volunteered with the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center, and Nelson volunteered at the Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda.

Nelson and Florence enjoyed traveling together to destinations including Italy and Alaska. They also loved cross-country road trips with their family and cruises in the Caribbean with family and friends.

Nelson and Florence enjoyed being active, playing golf and bowling. They played Euchre, Pinochle, and Bingo at their Florida Lakewood Village community clubhouse with their many friends. Everyone in the village knew and liked Nelson and Florence.

Nelson was predeceased by his parents, Doris and Desmond, his brothers, David and Alan, his wife, Florence Parker, and his son, Robert Michael Parker.

Nelson is survived by four of his children: Steven (Julie) Parker, Patricia (Scott) Williams, Dianne (Michael) Floeser, and Jennifer (Mark) Goldberg. Additionally, Nelson has 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

We all love you, Nelson. Rest in peace.

A service for the celebration of Nelson's life will be held at Centerway Church (formerly Mendon Church), 936 Cheese Factory Road, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472, on Saturday, April 18th, 2026, at 11:00 am. Family and friends of Nelson are welcome to join the service.

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