We first met Ken in 2002, as we had just become neighbors on Cutsail Drive in Damascus, MD.  As the years went by, we grew closer to he and Karen through Allison.  By the time Allison married Mike, we found ourselves parked in Ken’s computer chair (everyone knows it’s an honor to sit in Ken’s computer chair) as he displayed the incredible pictures he had contracted for the wedding.  That’s when we discovered Ken’s deep love and devotion for his wife, children, grandchildren, and photography.  Ken also passed along his knowledge of beer making to Dave and kindly donated his supplies upon retirement (Dave tried beer making solo but clearly missed Ken’s keen supervision). We visited our dear friends at each opportunity.  We found Ken and Karen living in a beautiful home, very happy and relaxed.  Ken loved company….he also loved a great debate.  We spent hours with him discussing worldly topics, his NAMI volunteer work, his new endeavor of golfing, his favorite movies (who did and didn’t make the list) and of course sampling the wines he carefully selected for the weekend.  We remember Ken as a very compassionate man…understanding and caring very much about the road our own family has traveled.  He spent quality time with our daughter…watching movies…discussing the various wildlife seen from the backyard deck including “Franklin” the alligator.  Ken always stayed in touch, whether by email or text from the iPad (to provide proper driving instructions to his home).  Pam will miss exchanging squirrel pictures, cards and stories with Ken… and will forever thank him for the fun banter through the years.  It was impossible to keep up with his wittiness… (the Donna Reed paper dolls were epic) but she sincerely loved and enjoyed the challenge.    We will miss you greatly dear friend and will hoist a wine glass in your honor from the Mohonk (almost heaven as you called it) when next we visit one of your favorite places, where we know you’ll be watching and smiling.


In honor of Ken a man who laughed  often and loved much, who had the respect and affection of all he  met, who appreciated the beauty in our world ,who found the best in others; who gave of himself,  who made our world  better while he was with us,  who played and laughed with enthusiasm , was loyal and steadfast, always leaving  the door open to help. You changed  our lives and loved us unconditionally. Thank you for being part of my life your friend
Forever, Goodbye Norm😍

My very first memory of Ken is one of generosity. At a time when I was scrambling to pick up the broken pieces of my life, before he even knew anything about me other than some of my struggles and the friendship Brett and I had developed, he provided a helping hand. The first time we met was at Brett’s college graduation. Brett and I had been together for only a few months at that point. We had a party afterwards and when it was time for Ken and Karen to go and “let the young people be young” Karen hugged me goodbye, which didn’t surprise anyone and if you know her, you know why, but then Ken hugged me, too, which was a surprise to everyone - and if you knew him, you also know why. Like he just knew what Brett and i’s future held and I was already part of the family. This is such a deep, horrible loss. And it isn’t fair. But we will go on. And we will continue to honor him and the life he had. Thank you, Ken, for letting me move into Brett’s apartment without paying rent, so I could try and get my life back together, and unknowingly setting the stage for this beautiful family that I have. Thank you for welcoming me into your family with open arms. Thank you for the entertaining moments of watching you and Brett debate over things - entertaining because you were essentially arguing with yourselves and saying the same things, just in different ways, and neither of you realized it. Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do for your family. Your legacy lives on in all of us. 

When we met Ken & Karen, we were so glad that our daughter had entered into a loving and caring family.. They opened their hearts to all of us, especially our daughter to welcome her into the family, to marry their son Brett. I am so proud to be a part of this loving family. Ken was always so gracious and caring. We enjoyed our time we had with him and will miss him terribly. 
Much Love to the family, Paul & Kelly Bateman

We are sorry for your loss.
We are going to miss him so much.
We love you all

Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church Food Pantry

Father: John Raymond Parker (deceased)
Mother: Willa Geraldine Rawdon Parker (deceased)
Wife: Karen Parker
Son: Scott Parker
Son: Brett Parker
Daughter: Allison Haines
Five grandchildren

OBITUARY

Kenneth Parker

August 6, 1948 – June 6, 2022

Lee Funeral Home

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