Obituary of Russell Parks

PARKS Russell Whidden, born August 17, 1919, in Springfield, MA, died peacefully in his sleep May 4, 2016, in Cincinnati, OH. Predeceased by his beloved wife, Kathryn Hirs Parks and his brothers Warren Wright Parks and Edgar Eugene Parks, he is survived by daughters Kathryn Parks Bechtle and Ann Parks McCray and son Russell Whidden Parks, Jr, 9 grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. His father, Warren W. Parks, was the Chief Engineer who supervised the construction and operation of Mariemont from 1923 to 1943 and subsequently served as the Village Manager of Indian Hill for 22 years. Russ graduated from Terrace Park High School in 1937 and Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1941. He was an officer in the United States Navy during WWII. He worked for Procter & Gamble Co. for 44 years in the Overseas Division he helped establish in 1954 while living with his family in Marseilles, France. He traveled the world for both work and pleasure. His family was his consummate joy and focus. His other passions included the Methodist Church, classical music and opera, singing in church choirs throughout his life, golf, bridge and the Pacific Coast. He and Kathy wintered in Carmel, CA, for twenty-eight years. Russ was above all else a true gentleman. He loved all people, uplifted everyone he met, and honored God. His positive influence lives on through the many lives he touched. A service in celebration of his life is planned for later in the summer. Remembrance donations are invited to the Armstrong Chapel Choir Fund, 5125 Drake Rd (45243).