Tom Parker
1958-2018
Tom Parker of Athabasca, beloved husband of Bev Parker, passed away suddenly on January 10, 2018 at the age of 59 years.
Tom was born in Athabasca on November 30, 1958 to Tom and Helen Parker. He spent most of his youth in Perryvale, which he always described as the best place ever to grown up. Tom and his brothers Mike and Jay, sister Del, cousins and friends spent many days fishing and swimming in the creek in summer and skating on it in winter. Tom also enjoyed playing baseball and hockey. Shannon came several years later and was always thought of as the little sister, who they all looked out for.
Tom started dating Bev Alberts in 1978 and they married in 1980. They purchased their first home in Athabasca in 1981. This was Tom's sense of pride until Rochelle came along 2 years later and topped his world. Tom and "daddy's little girl" were inseparable. He taught her to skate, fish, build things and eventually drive Peppy around the acreage at 11 years old. They purchased their current home in Century Estates in 1995 and another 2 years later Tommy (Thomas III) was born and Tom's life was complete. Tommy became his dad's shadow and they did many projects together, including building rockets, tree houses and sledding hills. Tom imparted an incredible mechanical knowledge to Tommy that he values every day. As an avid Oilers fan, Tom couldn't have been happier being a hockey dad.
Tom worked on the oil rigs in the early days and made many good lifelong friends along the away. He later became a journeyman and B pressure welder, built several welding rigs and worked hard and long hours on the pipeline to support his family. He always made work fun by laughing and joking with his work buddies. He took pride in mentoring many young guys along the way. He even taught his daughter the ways of the pipeline! When being away from home became tiring, Tom made a courageous move and went to NAIT to complete his dream of being a professional meatcutter. His sausage recipes were loved by all who tasted them.
Tom's love for fishing continued throughout his life and he spent many days in his boat at the lake, often pulling the kids on skis and tubes. Tom always had a love of cars and anything with a motor, especially Harley's. He eventually convinced Bev to ride and they spent many summer days enjoying the fresh air of the open road.
Tom had an amazing sense of humour and could carry on a conversation with absolutely anyone, whether it be in a mall waiting for Bev to shop or with his many friends over a beer. Tom was always the life of the party and fun to be around.
Tom was an easy man to love and to like. He had a kind heart, a helping nature and a fun-loving soul. He was a hard worker who took pride in all that he did. He enjoyed the company of his friends. Above all, he loved his family and was so very proud of his kids. He was a good man!
Life became harder for Tom and he struggled greatly. While his family and many friends supported him, it became too much for him to bear. We know that he didn't want to leave us, but he couldn't stay any longer. We're so very sad that he's gone, but we know he did his best. Tom, we hope your pain is over and that you've found the peace you deserve. You are forever in our hearts and in our memories. We will love you forevermore!
Besides his loving wife Bev, Tom is survived by his daughter Rochelle Parker (Ian Lynch), son Tommy Parker, sisters; Adele Parker & Shannon Parker (Ryan Oswald), brothers; Mike Parker & Jay (Wanda) Parker, mother-in-law Mildred Alberts, sister-in-law Judy Zachoda, in-laws; Janet (Bill) Pacholok, Cecile Alberts, Ken (Sue) Alberts, Linda (Tony) Grace and David Alberts, nephews; Brent (Rose) Parker, Warren (Kelsey) Vowel, Tyrell Parker, niece Carly Parker, as well as other nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and their families and many friends.
Tom was predeceased by his parents Tom and Helen Parker, grandparents; Jack Parker, Pearl and Bill Craswell, George and Barbara Nalesnik, infant sister Mary Parker, uncle Doug Parker, father-in-law Ed Alberts, brothers-in-law; Albert Zachoda and Ron Alberts.
A Celebration of Toms Life was held on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 at the Colinton Community Hall. Cremation has taken place.
Those who wish memorial donations may be made to Athabasca Minor Hockey or a charity of your choice. Thank you to those who have already generously donated in Toms Memory.
The Parker family wishes to thank our wonderful friends at the entire community for the love, care and support given to us over the last month. You truly are helping to ease the pain and carry on. Special thanks to the Athabasca Community Chapel and the Athabasca RCMP for the kindness and compassion shown to us.