Joe E. Parker, 90, of Fremont died Thursday evening August 1, 2013 at the Ohio Veteran’s Home in Sandusky, OH. Joe was born May 4, 1923 in Cook, OH, the son of Cornelius J. and Carolina M. (Campbell) Parker. He was a graduate of Bloomingburg High School and went on to enlist in the United States Army in 1943. He served with Heavy Maintainence Company, 916th Ordnance within the Heavy Automotive Division and was honorably discharged in 1946. He met his future wife, Catherine Magrum, at the Erie Proving Grounds, Camp Perry, Port Clinton. Mr. Parker worked for Atlas industries and later worked as a machinist for C&W Auto Supply working just short of his goal, 50 years. He was Past Commander and a 58 year member of the American Legion, a 53 year member of the Brainard Masonic Lodge, a league secretary for Legion Post 121 Bowling League. Joe enjoyed working as a “ticket seller” for Fremont Ross Athletic Department, working on sprint car engines, gardening, and playing fast pitch softball for the Hilltop Team. Other hobbies included camping and fishing and membership with the Maumee Valley Travel Trailer Club to be with his brother-in-law and friends. He was also an avid deer hunter with his brothers and brother-in-laws. Mr. Parker was a Founding Board Member of the Fremont Ross Music Alumni Foundation (FROMALUM) and a lover of music, his favorites were country and classical but he had an appreciation for all genres, and loved spending time with his family.
Surviving is his daughter, Valerie J. Matthes of Fremont, OH; son-in-law Daniel K. Matthes of Fremont, OH brothers: Robert Parker of Springfield, OH, William Parker of Tiffin, OH and sister, Ellen Parker of Urbana, OH. He was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine (Magrum) Parker, brothers: Donald and Emil Parker.
Visitation will take place on Tuesday, August 6, 2013 from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. at Keller-Ochs-Koch-Mason Funeral & Cremation Service, 416 S. Arch Street, Fremont, OH.
Funeral services will begin at 10:30A.M. on Wednesday at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Oakwood Cemetery with military graveside rights performed by the American Legion and V.F.W.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family to disperse Joe’s favorite organizations. Online condolences may be expressed at www.kokm.net
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