Richard Allen Parkko

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Allen Parkko, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Richard passed away on August 30, 2026, at the age of 71, following a courageous battle with congestive heart failure.

Born on June 22, 1955, in Ellensburg, Washington, Richard was raised in Cle Elum, Washington. Throughout his life, Richard was known for his strong work ethic, determined spirit, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Richard was the cherished son of Toivo John Parkko and Evelyn Josephine (Stewart) Parkko. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Chuck and Ray; and his sisters, Betty and Mary.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Sharon, with whom he shared a remarkable journey filled with love, laughter, and countless treasured memories. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three wonderful children: Curtis, Christopher (Lisa), and Jennifer (Cody). Richard was also a proud and loving grandfather to Anria and Camila, who were his pride and joy. He is further survived by his brother, Marvin (Jeanie), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

After graduating from White River High School in 1974, Richard worked for Burlington Northern Railroad, where he maintained and repaired railroad tracks. He then proudly served his country in the United States Navy from 1975 to 1984. He attained the rank of Hull Maintenance Technician First Class (HT1) and served at various duty stations and aboard several ships, including USS Kitty Hawk, USS Frederick, and USS Barbour County. During his service, he received multiple Navy Good Conduct Medals and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal.

Following his honorable military service, Richard began a distinguished career in the aerospace and manufacturing industries. He worked for Hexcel in Kent, Washington, where he contributed to the production of Boeing aircraft parts, industrial windmills, and floor beds for Kenworth trucks. His experience and leadership later brought him to Glass Forms in Birmingham, Alabama, and then to Magna Kamtek, where he remained until his retirement in 2019.

Richard was an exceptionally intelligent and hardworking man. If something needed to be done, he made sure it was done—and done well. Throughout his career, he earned numerous awards, plaques, and certificates recognizing his knowledge, dedication, and accomplishments, many of which he proudly displayed in his man cave.

Outside of work, Richard was a man of many interests and passions. He loved the great outdoors and found peace in camping and traveling. In his later years, he developed a special fondness for cruises, which allowed him to return to the ocean he had once sailed during his time in the Navy.

Richard’s love of music—especially The Beatles and For King & Country—was well known, and he enjoyed attending concerts with Sharon. A gifted tinkerer who could repair just about anything, he affectionately earned the nickname “Mr. Fix-It.”

He also enjoyed watching NCIS, Star Trek, YouTube documentaries, and his beloved Seattle Seahawks. Some of his greatest pleasures could be found in life’s simplest moments: feeding his birds, sitting on the porch with his dog Lady Hawk, enjoying a cold beer, and spending time with the people he loved.

Richard was known for his quick wit, quirky sense of humor, and unforgettable laugh. His kindness and generosity left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. He had a way of lighting up a room and making others feel valued, comfortable, and welcome. His love for life was evident in every conversation, every joke, and every thoughtful act of kindness.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Kilgroe Funeral Home in Leeds, Alabama.

Following the visitation, a service honoring Richard’s life and military service will be held at 12:30 pm at the Alabama National Cemetery, located at 3133 Highway 119, Montevallo, Alabama 35115.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Gary Sinise Foundation in Richard’s memory.

Richard’s family finds comfort in the message of his favorite song, “Scars in Heaven” by Casting Crowns:

"If I had only know the last time would be the last time

I would've put off all the things I had to do

I would've stayed a little longer, held on a little tighter

Now what I'd give for one more day with you

'Cause there's a wound here in my heart where something's missing

And they tell me that it's gonna heal with time

But I know you're in a place where all your wounds have been erased

And knowing yours are healed is healing me

The only scars in Heaven, they won't belong to me and you

There'll be no such thing as broken, and all the old will be made new

And the thought that makes me smile now, even as the tears fall down

Is that the only scars in Heaven are on the hands that hold you now"

May Richard’s memory be a blessing to everyone who knew and loved him, and may his spirit live on through the countless lives he touched.

Rest peacefully, dear Richard. Though our hearts are broken by your absence, we are forever grateful for the love, laughter, strength, and countless precious memories you gave us. You will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and carried in our hearts until the day we meet again.