Kenneth Parma

Kenneth (Ken) Lee Parma left this world to join his heavenly family Saturday, February 21st, 2015. He passed away peacefully after a long time of declining health. There will be a Celebration of Life to honor him in Waco, Texas which will be shared at a later date. In lieu of flowers or donations the family invites you to share a messages or memory here in the guest book that will be used to create a forever keepsake for the family.

Ken was born June 18, 1933 in Waco, Texas to Rudolph (Rudy) and Margaret Hablinski Parma. He was the 4th born of 4 brothers and a sister. In his younger years he served as an altar boy and during high school played baseball with the Waco High Tigers, graduating in 1951. He proudly served in the United States Navy, with his lifelong friend Robert Johnson, before attending Baylor University and graduating with a BBA in 1959. Ken helped pay his way through college by working part time for Waco Tile Service. He then left Waco briefly but returned to make it his home. In 1971 he opened Ken Parma’s Copy Center and supplied copy machines to most of the businesses in Waco as well as Baylor University. He eventually opened another location in Temple, which he later sold before selling his namesake location to retire in 1990 and fully start enjoying some of his favorite things in life – hunting, fishing and golfing. Ken also enjoyed traveling which he began in the Navy and continued throughout most of his life. He was a man of big dreams and goals and he worked hard to accomplish them all! He was a supporter of the Waco Boy’s Club, numerous local charities, a member of the Texas Trophy Hunters Association, Duck’s Unlimited and a lifelong avid sports fan of the Baylor Bears, Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers.

After college Ken married his first wife, Jan Roberts Marion, and they were blessed with a daughter, Kimberly Ann. Years later he met his second wife of 48 years, Diana Hanson, and became the adopted father of her 1 year old daughter, Tonya Lee. His nick name was “Hair” by many of his golfing buddies and he was considered a “cut up” by friends and family, even by the wonderful caregivers he had during the last few years of his life. He had the kindest, most beautiful blue eyes and an infectious smile and laugh. Ken will be dearly missed by his loved ones and the lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Rudolph and Margaret Hablinski Parma; brother, Danny Parma and beloved dog, Brandy.

He leaves behind his wife Diana Parma; daughter and son-in-law, Kimberly and Joe Croce; daughter, Tonya Martin; granddaughter, Blair Croce; grandson, Cole Croce and granddaughter, Trinity Martin. He is also survived by his brother, Rudy Parma (Marlene); sister, Shirley Wirt; brother, Richard Parma; brother, Milton Parma (Jaye); brother-in-law, Rock Walls; a host of cousins, nieces and nephews and their families; as well as numerous lifelong friends.

The family would like to graciously thank HuntLeigh Care Homes and the special ladies that took care of Ken – Margaret, Patricia S., Beatrice and Patricia; Ardent Hospice, Ray Hanson; VA Home Health and his special driver Nick with Dallas Wheelchair Transport.