Howard E. Parker

Howard E. Parker, 73, of Massillon, passed away on Tuesday, January 04, 2022, after a courageous, five-year battle with ALS. Howard was born on May 17th, 1948, in Massillon, Ohio to the late Howard W. and Elverna (Maurer) Parker. He was a 1966 graduate of Massillon Washington High School. Howard worked at Xcel Mold and Machine Company for 44 years as an EDM Supervisor, designing and constructing machinery parts. After retirement, in order to remain active, as well as to socialize amongst his peers, he worked for Parts Pro delivering car parts throughout northeast Ohio. He quickly became a favorite on all of his routes, and he thoroughly enjoyed spending his free time on the job. Howard was an exceptional man, and his selflessness made him an inspiration to all. Everyone who met Howard loved him. He was an extraordinary husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Howard’s grandchildren meant the world to him, and they adored their "Pa Pa”. Howard was a man of integrity. He believed in the value of hard work and understood the importance of leading by example. There wasn't anything that he couldn't do, and he did everything to perfection. He taught his children to live their lives with strength, perseverance, and determination. Howard was funny, intelligent, and endearing. He had an infectious laugh, and his smile lit up the room. Howard made the world a better place and he will be deeply missed. Howard's first passion in life was his family, but his second passion in life was Massillon Tiger Football. Howard attended over 600 Varsity games and was a fixture at Paul Brown Tiger Stadium. He attended practices, scrimmages, and underclassmen games. Howard was a true Tiger, and acquired many friendships through his devotion to Tiger football. Massillon Always, TIG! Howard had many other interests throughout his life. He enjoyed watching Nascar, and his favorite driver was Dale Earnhardt. Howard was very active, and would often be outdoors gardening or birdwatching; he especially loved hummingbirds. Each spring, he would anxiously await their arrival. He was a skilled craftsman and repairman who took great pride in all of his work, in particular, building decks and repairing cars. Howard was an excellent grill master who looked forward to Sunday cookouts and spending time with his family. He was dubbed “Howard Hoyle” for his love of the card game Euchre, and his extraordinary ability to be the reigning champion of the family! The health care needs in Howard’s final years were immense, and many medical professionals played an integral part in his care. We would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses, nursing assistants, therapists, administrators, and case managers who helped Howard through this difficult journey. We are truly grateful for Dr. Katirji, nurse Kim, and their staff, as well as Mercy Medical Center, Northeast Professional Home Care, Aultman Medical Group, and Direction Home, for their expertise, and willingness to go above and beyond in the care they provided. We would also like to recognize Legends Care Center and Meadow Wind Health Care Center for their dedication to providing a supportive environment. A special thank you to Richard Bolling, Jr. and Melissa Bullock, without their love, care, and companionship, Howard would not have been afforded the opportunity to remain in his home, with his family. It is because of their dedication, warmth, and compassion that many special memories were made, and family celebrations were possible. Additionally, we would like to acknowledge Bob Dwyer for his friendship and commitment to Howard’s well-being. Son-in-law, Norman Diveley, for the countless hours he selflessly devoted to caring for Howard in the home. Also, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Stephanie Williams, for being a constant support, especially during Howard’s final hours. There were so many friends and family members who supported Howard during his battle with ALS, too many to mention by name, but please know we appreciate everything you have done for him and the family. He is survived by his loving wife, Joan (Drobney) Parker whom he shared 52 years of marriage; his children Michelle Parker, Lisa Parker (Terry Anderson), Denise (Norman) Diveley, Scott Parker; grandchildren, Hemennah, Clement, Mason, Athan, Hayden, Xavier, Linus, Helena, Connor, Cassie, Benedict, and Simon; sisters, Linda (Charles) Burris and Deborah (the late Bruce) Barth; brother, David Parker; family members, Tonya Parker and Christian Bakken; as well as numerous brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, nieces, and nephews. The family will receive friends on Friday, February 4th, from 6-8 p.m., at the Paquelet Funeral Home in Massillon. Burial will be private, but the family will hold a celebration of Howard’s life at a later time for all to attend. Please check the funeral home website for updates on the celebration of life.