James Walter Parker

James W Parker was born in Natick MA on January 18th, 1947. He was the son of the late Walter Parker and Helen (Shea) Parker and sibling to the late Janice Lattuca and the late Michael Parker. At age 21, he enlisted in the marines and fought in the Vietnam war for 3 years. Upon his honorable discharge, he later graduated from Boston College with a Bachelor’s of Arts degree and a Master of Social Work.

Jim found his calling as a social worker and his career spanned over two decades. He held positions at the New Hampshire State Prison, Veterans Administration Hospital, Veterans Outreach Center and his own private practice.

His curiosity in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) led him to The New England School of Acupuncture where he earned a Doctor of Acupuncture (DAc). He laid his healing hands and shared his energy with many, rarely charging for a session.

Jim was an avid reader and collector of books and was always happy to share his latest favorite. He was also known for telling his children that “Readers are our Leaders”. Other hobbies included baking bread and the most delicious triple chocolate chip cookies. Jim enjoyed the outdoors and loved flint knapping and fly fishing. When the weather got too cold, he moved indoors and practiced yoga and played the guitar. His interest in woodworking resulted in several well-crafted Windsor chairs.

In 1985, he met his devoted and loving wife, Catherine, while working at the VA Hospital. They married in 1987 and have two beautiful daughters, Kristin and Elissa whom he loved dearly. Jim was the best dad and husband anyone could ask for. He will always be remembered as a kind, humble and selfless man by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 15 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM with an 11:30 AM service at Bennett Funeral Home, 209 N Main St Concord, NH, to be followed by a burial at 1:00PM at the NH State Veterans Cemetery, 110 Daniel Webster Highway, Boscawen, NH.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to The Hope Lodge Center in Boston, MA that provides housing for cancer patients and their loved ones while undergoing treatment.