This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: ChgoKid Surnames: Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.wisconsin.counties.shawano/17138/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Shawano Leader Friday, September 04, 2009 Donald G. Parks, of Marion, Wis. For those who knew Don Parks, it's no secret that he didn't need much to be happy. He filled his humble life with the things that really matter - family, friends, nature - and he lived a rich, contented life of 69 years. Born and raised in Marion, Don traveled the world after joining the Navy at the age of 17, but, always knowing where he wanted to spend the rest of his life, he settled in his hometown with his beloved wife, Gail (Cerveny), to raise three daughters (and one special dog) and build a life worth living. Valuing loyalty and hard work, Don welded for 40 years at the Four Wheel Drive Corporation in Clintonville, and was a proud member of Local #815 as well as the William Bertram American Legion Post #198. Beyond the fulfillment of an honest day's work, Don enjoyed snagging brook trout out of Doty's Creek, calling in the hundreds of birds that found sanctuary in his backyard, sinking a tough putt at Perry's Landing, sitting in his deer stand to watch the sun rise d! uring bow hunting season, swishing a free throw in the hoop on the back of the barn, and introducing his grandchildren to their first Orange Crush. Surrounded by his family, Don left this world peacefully on Sept. 2, 2009 at the UW Hospital in Madison to join those who have left before him including his parents Reynold and Evelyn Parks of Marion. He leaves behind his wife of 46 years, Gail (Cerveny); his brother, Ramon (Marion) Parks of Rib Lake; his three daughters, Ann Parks, Jill (Brett) Larson, and Julie (Al Kotlarek) Parks, all of Madison; his six grandchildren (Sam, Emma, Henry, Oscar, Ruby, and Lila); and his many friends. A special thank you to Dr. Walter Longo, his team, and the caring staff at UW Hospital and its Comprehensive Cancer Clinic. They all helped him live with leukemia with great dignity and courage. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Sept. 5th at 11a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Marion. Fr. John W. Girotti will officiate and military honors will be provided by members of American Legion Post #198 of Marion. Friends may call on Saturday from 9 a.m. until time of service at the church. Beil-Didier Funeral Home, Marion, is assisting the family and online condolence may be sent via www.beil-didier.com. At Don's request, dress casually and comfortably. In Don's memory, please consider a donation to the Marion Pond Association or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.