Lasting Memories

Troy Parker
1941-Dec. 23, 2010
Palo Alto, California

Troy Gene Parker, 69, a resident of Palo Alto, died Dec. 23, 2010.

He was born in Laredo, Texas, raised in Heavener, Okla., and moved to California with his cousin as a teenager. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps for four years. While stationed in Hawaii, he met his future wife, Dorothy, on Waikiki Beach. They were married in 1962. They settled in Palo Alto, where he worked as a carpenter for approximately 30 years.

He was an avid reader who appreciated the simple things in life, such as good food and spending time at Mitchell Park with his golden Labrador dog, loved ones recalled. He enjoyed solving home-repair problems and using his ingenuity to help many in his community over the years. He took great pride in his work and what he built or repaired lasted a lifetime, while thoughtfulness and humor were his trademarks, loved ones said.

He especially enjoyed spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Dorothy Parker of Palo Alto; children, Cathleen Samora of Dacono, Colo., Brion Parker of Mountain View, and Hilari Gaines of Walnut Creek, Calif.; five grandchildren; and many friends and neighbors.