Obituary of Gerald F. Parker

"Gerald F. Parker, 67, of Wilbraham Rd, died Thursday, May 10, 2007 at the home of his daughter in Granby. Born in Springfield, October 1, 1939, he lived in Hampden for a time before moving to Monson in 1970. He served in the Army in a transportation unit during the Korean War. His last employment (starting in1993) was as a small engine mechanic for Acres Power Equipment in E. Longmeadow before retiring in 2005. He was previously self employed (G. F. Parker and Sons Trucking) as a long haul trucker, to his credit of logging in over 1 million miles accident free. The majority of his working carreer was as a car and diesel engine mechanic, loving to work on engines, of course being an avid NASCAR fan. When in season, he enjoyed deer hunting and deep sea fishing. He and his wife of 34 years co-owned and ran M & J Sportsmen’s Corner in Palmer from 1984-1988. He was a member of Mt. Orthodox Lodge of Masons in W. Springfield. He also was an active, enthusiastic member of the Champion Flamingo Racing pit crew for many years. His wife Madeleine J .(Lucas) Parker predeceased him in 2004. He is survived by two step sons Joseph C.O’ Sullivan of Texas, and Robert M. O’Sullivan of Germany, along with two daughters Kathryn Lawrence of Ludlow and Donna Harmon of Granby. He also leaves 5 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Services will be held Tuesday, May 15 at 9:00 a.m. from the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home, 1475 N. Main St., (Rte. 20) followed by a mass at 10:00 a.m. in St. Patrick’s Church, Monson. Following cremation, burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery. Calling hours are Monday, May 14 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. For those wishing, donations may be made in his memory to American Cancer Society.Geral"