In Memory Of
Donald A. Parry
1929
2024
Donald A. Parry
August 10, 1929 — February 11, 2024
Rochester-
Passed away on February 11, 2024 at the age of 94.
Predeceased by his wife, Gretchen of 58 years; parents, Silas & Florence Parry; brothers-in-law, Robert Heath, Jim Seager & Fred Martin; sisters-in-law, June Parry, Sandy Martin & Margo Seager.
He is survived by his children, Allen (Edith) Parry, Laural (Joseph) Jacobs & Linda Parry; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; brother, Dr. William Parry; sister, Helen Heath; several nieces, nephews & many-many friends.
Don grew up in Elmira, attending public schools, graduating from Elmira Free Academy in 1947. He had the additional challenge of having his father as one of the vice principals at the school. He entered the University of Rochester in the fall and graduated in 1951. He briefly attended Syracuse University with plans to become a history teacher, but in August of '52 he was offered a position in the Alumni office at the U of R, which he accepted.
He married the love of his life, Gretchen Towner, on November 15, 1952 in Bath, NY. He remained with the Alumni office for the next 8 years. In 1960 he became the first director of the University of Rochester Conference Office, a position he held until December 31, 1995 when he retired.
He enjoyed sports- following baseball, particularly the Baltimore Orioles, basketball and golf. He was an avid bowler- always in 2 or 3 leagues until his late 80's. He volunteered at Genesee Country Village- first in the membership booth and then as a painter and coordinator of the Nutt family painters. He often remarked that he should go back to work so he could get some rest as he was so busy in retirement.
He lost the love of his life in 2010 after being her caretaker through the journey of Alzheimer's. Dad had a life well lived. Please join us for a celebration of his life.
Family will receive friends Friday February 23, 2024 from 10:00am - 12:00pm, immediately following will be a service at 12:00pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 2636 Ridgeway Avenue.
Please click here to view Donald's service.
Interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery,1133 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620.
Contributions may be made to: Genesee Country Village & Museum or a charity of your choosing
To share a memory of Don or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.
Passed away on February 11, 2024 at the age of 94.
Predeceased by his wife, Gretchen of 58 years; parents, Silas & Florence Parry; brothers-in-law, Robert Heath, Jim Seager & Fred Martin; sisters-in-law, June Parry, Sandy Martin & Margo Seager.
He is survived by his children, Allen (Edith) Parry, Laural (Joseph) Jacobs & Linda Parry; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; brother, Dr. William Parry; sister, Helen Heath; several nieces, nephews & many-many friends.
Don grew up in Elmira, attending public schools, graduating from Elmira Free Academy in 1947. He had the additional challenge of having his father as one of the vice principals at the school. He entered the University of Rochester in the fall and graduated in 1951. He briefly attended Syracuse University with plans to become a history teacher, but in August of '52 he was offered a position in the Alumni office at the U of R, which he accepted.
He married the love of his life, Gretchen Towner, on November 15, 1952 in Bath, NY. He remained with the Alumni office for the next 8 years. In 1960 he became the first director of the University of Rochester Conference Office, a position he held until December 31, 1995 when he retired.
He enjoyed sports- following baseball, particularly the Baltimore Orioles, basketball and golf. He was an avid bowler- always in 2 or 3 leagues until his late 80's. He volunteered at Genesee Country Village- first in the membership booth and then as a painter and coordinator of the Nutt family painters. He often remarked that he should go back to work so he could get some rest as he was so busy in retirement.
He lost the love of his life in 2010 after being her caretaker through the journey of Alzheimer's. Dad had a life well lived. Please join us for a celebration of his life.
Family will receive friends Friday February 23, 2024 from 10:00am - 12:00pm, immediately following will be a service at 12:00pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 2636 Ridgeway Avenue.
Please click here to view Donald's service.
Interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery,1133 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620.
Contributions may be made to: Genesee Country Village & Museum or a charity of your choosing
To share a memory of Don or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Donald A. Parry, please visit our flower store.
Service Schedule
Past Services
Visitation
Friday, February 23, 2024
10:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)
New Comer Cremations & Funerals
Service
Friday, February 23, 2024
New Comer Cremations & Funerals
Guestbook
Visits: 10
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