Robert Parsons, of Lynden, passed away at home, surrounded by his family on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2016 at the age of 61.
Robert was born March 10, 1955 in San Pedro, California, and grew up on the West Wiser Lake Road. He graduated from Meridian High School and went on to earn his associate’s degree from Whatcom Community College. Robert learned to be a heavy equipment mechanic and paramedic. He joined the U.S. Army and after a year and a half was injured and honorably discharged. He went back to school with the help of the Veterans Administration and was becoming a funeral director. From time to time, Robert assisted at Gillies Funeral Home and Moles Farewell Tributes, then worked for three years at Jerns Funeral Chapel. Robert married Kelli Worden on March 12, 2004 in Lynden.
Robert was so proud of growing lilies and aspired to be known as the neighborhood lily man. Even though he enjoyed fishing, target practice, 1960s oldies rock-and-roll music and classic cars, his greatest loves were his grandchildren and serving Jesus. He was a charter member at North County Christ the King Church, serving as usher and video technician. He liked putting together Thanksgiving food baskets for the Giving Hands Ministry. Robert was a lifetime member of Post 19 of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
Robert is survived by his loving wife of 12 years, Kelli; son Layton (Stephanie) Parsons and their children Peyton, Kylie and Levi; daughter Amy Worden, who looked after him with loving dedication; son Dwight (Emily) Worden and their daughter Laci; mother Marina (Ron) Welch; sister and fishing partner Felicia (Bliss) Small; brothers Steve Parsons, Kent (Billie Jean) Parsons and Daniel Parsons; favorite niece Cheyanne (Matt) Charroin and great-nephew Hunter; and numerous other nieces and nephews.
A graveside committal will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 15, in Greenwood Cemetery followed by a 2 p.m. memorial service in North County Christ the King Community Church, 1816 18th St., Lynden.
Memorials may be sent to Giving Hands Ministries, c/o NCCTK, Lynden, WA 98264. You are invited to share your condolences and memories in the online guestbook at www.gilliesfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Lynden and Jerns Funeral Chapel, Bellingham.
