2593 John Alfred PARKER
PARKER, John Alfred LCol (ret); MBE, B.M.Sc., CD. April 28th, 1918 – May 29th, 2012 Born in Ottawa to Alfred and Mina; step-mother Ella. Attended Royal Military College, Kingston. As an officer in the Royal Canadian Corps of Signals, went overseas in 1940 with the 2nd Canadian Infantry Division Signals Regiment, served in the United Kingdom and in the North West Europe campaigns. Mentioned in dispatches in recognition of gallant and distinguished services. Made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his “conscientious and cheerful efforts.” Served continuously in the theatre of operations until the cessation of hostilities; subsequently in the Army of Occupation. Returned to Canada in 1946 and served in a number of commands and staff appointments in Canada and Germany. On retirement in 1969, assumed the position of first Administrator, Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority, Kingston, where he became a friend and mentor to many before moving to Victoria, BC, in 1981. Served on the Board of Governors, Corps of Commissionaires, Victoria Branch, active in the RMC Club of Canada; Warden at St. Dunstan’s Church. Survived by his loving wife, Valerie, with whom he recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary; daughter, Jill (Peter); son, Nick (Sandi); grandchildren Matthew, Andria, Colin, Ben, Stephen; great-grandchildren, Grace and Owen. He died suddenly but peacefully at home. Deeply loved, Johnny will be greatly missed by all his family and friends. Memorial service will be held Monday, June 11th, 2012 at 2:00 p.ml at St. Dunstan’s Church. Flowers gratefully declined; donations may be made in his name to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Canadian Cancer Society, or St. Dunstan’s Church, Victoria, BC.