Donald Charles Parker, Sr.

Donald Charles Parker, Sr. of Deer Park. Age 98. Beloved husband to the late Victoria (Villani) Parker. Cherished father to Denise M. Ruggiere, Joanne (Vincent) DiGiacomo, Donald C. (Patricia) Parker, Jr., and Christine (Robert) Leavy, Jr. Cherished Grandfather to Jason (Theresa) Ruggiere, Alessandra (Gregory) Topal, Diana Ruggiere, Anthony DiGiacomo, Victoria (John) Donnelly, Thomas J. Parker, Nicole (Justin) Connors, Donald C. Parker III, Nina Parker, Alyssa Leavy and Robert Leavy III and Great Grandfather to 16. Adored Brother-in-law to Theresa Iorio and Salvatore (Connie) Villani. He will be missed by his many nieces and nephews.

Donald was born on April 12, 1924 in New York City. He grew up in Harlem before moving to the Bronx. Donald learned at a very young age how to survive. These skills came in handy when serving his country in World War II.

Donald enlisted in the United States Army and served in the 8th Infantry 4th Division. He landed on Utah Beach in the Normandy Invasion and walked throughout Europe and fought in the Battle of the Bulge. He is a Bronze Star Recipient for his bravery and decisive action.

After returning from the war, Donald met the love of his life, Victoria Villani. They married and raised a family in the Bronx. Donald was an entrepreneur and had several jobs and businesses. He was a master craftsman and had his own upholstery business. There was nothing he could not build or fix. His final career was with the New York City Transit Authority. He retired in 1986.

After the passing of his wife Victoria, Donald moved to Long Island where he lived for the last twenty years.

Donald was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and uncle. There was nothing he would not do for his family and those he loved. He was very generous of heart and with all that he had.

Donald loved and adored his family and he was loved and adored in return. He will be missed.