WINDHAM — Walter Melvin Parker, age 83, became a Silent Key (W1SQV) on April 7, 2017, of respiratory failure in his home with family by his side.
Born in Ellsworth on June 17, 1933, he was the son of Fred Foster Parker and Jennie Mayo (Carr) Parker. He graduated from Ellsworth High School, followed by service in the U.S. Navy. When he returned to Ellsworth, he had a variety of jobs. He worked as a mechanic for Bar Harbor Airways in Trenton and transferred to the Portland location. He operated his own painting business until going to work for the Reece Corp. in Gorham, where he met his second wife. They were married for 35 years. He retired in 1988 with health issues. Ham radio, Red Sox, movies, bird watching, deck sitting and connecting with friends and family were his passions.
He was predeceased by his sister Helen (Parker) Davis. Walter is survived by his cherished wife, Laurel Ruth (Tolman) Parker, eldest daughter Denise (Parker) Roberts, son Charles Fearing Parker, youngest daughter Jennie Elizabeth (Parker) Clark and her husband, Lewis Emmett Clark, and grandchildren Kayla Marie (Roberts) Hejnas, Erin Lynn Roberts, Tyler Andrew Clark and closest nephew John (Jack) Wixon.
A private service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton. Online condolence messages can be submitted at www.mainefuneral.com.
Memorial donations can be made to Windham Hill United Church of Christ, 140 Windham Center Road, Windham, ME 04062.
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