Obituary of Charles T. Parker

Charles T. Parker Charles T. “Chuck” Parker passed away at home on April 5th, 2009 at the age of 98. He was born December 1, 1910 in Tacoma, WA to Joseph and Ethel Parker. He attended grade school in Tacoma and high school in Eatonville. After high school he joined the Conservation Corp and helped string phone lines around Mount Rainier to Eastern Washington. In 1939, he married Hazel “Pat” Parker. They moved to Olympia in 1944. In 1962 they moved to their permanent home on Ward Lake. In 1939 Chuck began working for Pacific Northwest Bell. He worked in construction, as an installer, and the last ten years with the phone company was a switchman. He also served as the local President of the Communication Workers of America for 10 years. Chuck retired from Pacific Northwest Bell in 1973 after 34 years. Chuck was an avid fisherman and hunter, he also loved to garden and read. His favorite fishing holes were on the lakes in Thurston County and favorite hunting spot for birds was in Eastern Washington with his dogs. Chuck also was a great storyteller, relating the tales of his work and play at Mount Rainier, Alaska, and his other travels. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Pat Parker; three children, Keith (Jeri) Parker, Patricia Brock, Alan (Carol) Parker, all of Olympia; 7 grandchildren, Connie Collins, Pam Bell, Rick Parker, Mark Parker, Kim Wagar, Brian Brock, and Becky Brock; 12 great-grandchildren; and 9.5 great-great grandchildren; also many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister, Verron Jensen. A funeral service will be held 2:00 p.m. Monday, April 13, 2009 at the Masonic Center, 455 North Street SE, Tumwater. Burial will follow in Masonic Memorial Park, Tumwater, WA. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice.