PARKIN, Robert William Kenneth
November 3 1921 – June 8 2012
Bob Parkin passed peacefully in his sleep in Courtenay BC at the age of 90. He was predeceased in 2005 by his wife of 57 years, the love of his life, Tess. Leaving to remember is his daughter Jan Radford and son Jim (Diana). Dad will also be remembered by granddaughter Marni Radford (Grant), and grandsons Ken (Calista) and Kevin (Kirstin), and three beautiful great granddaughters Kendra, Taylor and Brianna. He also leaves his brother in law, John Derton, nieces, nephews and many lifelong friends.
Born in Vancouver, Dad moved to Powell River at age two and resided in the town site. After meeting mom in Cranberry they soon wed, resided in Cranberry and eventually moved to Westview where they raised their family. After mom passed he moved to Courtenay to be closer to his island family and resided on his own in Valley Vista Estates until just days before he passed.
Bob worked in the mill offices after high school. He enlisted in the Navy during World War II and was proud to serve his country. After the war he returned to the mill offices until he took four years early retirement. If he remained and with credit for service years, he would have attained 50 years service with the company. As it was he was proud to have been recognized as one of the company’s longest serving employees.
Dad was very proud of his involvement with the Sea Cadets in Powell River and being their Commanding Officer for a number of years. He took pride in watching his young charges grow and mature, and for them to remain in contact over the years and express their thanks was very special. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for over 50 years. In later years Dad loved to play horseshoes and crib and a visit to the casino was a fun pastime. When younger, Dad enjoyed ballroom and square dancing with mom, and they spent many happy years following and even teaching these pursuits. Mom was an avid gardener, and dad was always there to help from digging the beds to planting, weeding and harvesting.
Avid outdoors people, mom and dad spent a great amount of time boating, fishing and camping all over BC and the coastal waters. Much of this time included family members and contains some wonderful memories.
Dad was always there for both of us, all of us, and we will miss him so very much. You may be gone Dad, but you will always be loved and never forgotten.
No service by request. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the charity of your choice.