Robert Parker

Robert Randolph Parker, 89, of Decatur, IL, passed away at 4:25 p.m. Friday, September 18, 2015, at Symphony of Decatur. Graveside services will be conducted at 2:00 PM Monday, September 21, at Randolph Cemetery, near Kenney, IL. Brintlinger and Earl Funeral Homes, Decatur, IL, are assisting the family with the arrangements. Memorials may be made to: DMH Hospice or Randolph Cemetery Park, Inc. Robert was born on the family farm in Kenney, IL on April 15, 1926. He was the son of Mason Sumner Parker, Sr. and Hazel (Bailey) Parker. Bob married Pauline White on August 10, 1947, in Argenta, IL. Bob was a graduate of Kenney High School and attended Millikin University. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII from 1944-1946. Bob was assigned to LST 849 in the Pacific Ocean (the same ship which was recently returned to the U.S. and restored). Bob retired in 1990 as a claims adjuster with Pekin Insurance Co. He thoroughly enjoyed all kinds of outdoors activities, creating various items of stained glass, piano playing, singing, University of Illinois sports, and especially spending as much time as possible with his family. Bob was a member of Stephen Decatur Masonic Lodge #979, Beaumanoir Commandery #9 - Knights Templar, and Ansar Shrine International - Oasis of Springfield, IL. He was of the Methodist faith. Surviving are his wife of 68 years: Pauline of Decatur, IL; daughter: Shonna Beuscher and husband Davis of Pekin, IL; grandchildren: April Herrin (Curt) of Tremont, IL, Sara Burnett (Cory) of Bloomington, IL; great-grandchildren: Parker Herrin, Ava Herrin, and Luke Burnett; and one brother: Mason Parker, Jr. of Orlando, FL. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, one sister: Chana, and one brother: Harold. The family wishes to thank the staff of Symphony of Decatur for the loving care given to Bob. "
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