Patrick Emory Parsons

Patrick Emory Parsons
Nov. 8, 1933 - Oct. 11, 2017

Patrick Emory Parsons, 83, passed away on Wednesday, October 11, 2017.

He was born 8 November 1933 in Bridal Veil, Oregon to Vaughn and Mildred Parsons.

Patrick graduated from Lebanon High School.  Although he received a college scholarship to play baseball, he elected to join the Marines Corps, requesting his parents to sign a Record of Military Entrance allowing him to join the summer before he turned 18.

He served 31 years in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) retiring at the rank of E-9 Master Gunnery Sergeant (MGySgt).  He served during the Korean War and the Cuban Missile Crisis along with four separate tours in Vietnam.

Upon retirement, the USMC hired him to teach ROTC for them at Tolleson High School just outside Phoenix, Arizona.  He sculpted young men and women into adults, ensuring they stayed in school and performed to their fullest.  Up until his death, he had former cadets continue to stay in touch sending their love and respect via phone calls, letters, cards and random visits. 

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra L. Parsons, earlier this year (21 January 2017) after 62+ years of marriage.

He is survived by daughter Stormy L. Karsten and son Scott J. Parsons both of Maryland; five granddaughters (Heather, Brooke, Chelsea, Keri Ann & Nicole); and three great grandchildren (Milie, Carter & Kali).

AAsum-Dufour Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.