Final Salute

WILLIAM “DALE” PARKS William “Dale” Parks was born on July 17, 1924, in Lexington, Neb. On the 5th day of October 2024, the gates of heaven welcomed Dale where he joined his wife and soulmate. Dale was the last of 12 children born into the Parks family. After graduation from the Malta Bend High School in 1943, Dale entered the U.S. Navy Seabees. Honorable discharge on February 18, 1946. Dale married Doris Jean Alley on March 16, 1946, to which they enjoyed 74 blessed years until her death on October 31, 2020. They were blessed with two sons, Larry William and Kenneth Wayne. Kenny transitioned to heaven in 1958. Dale and Doris were members of the Maywood Baptist Church in Independence, Mo., where Dale served as a deacon. For 34 years, Dale was a member of Kansas City Power and Light as an electrician. He was always ready to help anyone, especially the widow ladies, that Doris decided to go with him on those calls. His son, Larry, needed a light installed in his backyard. The next thing Larry knew was his dad was bringing a light pole strapped onto the side of his El Camino. Together they set the pole and Dale climbed the ladder to set on top of the pole to install the light. After retirement, Dale and Doris enjoyed travel across the country. He enjoyed bowling and was even on the TV show, Bowling for Dollars. Fishing was another activity he liked. Dale helped build Missouri Baptist Home in Peculiar and a room was dedicated to his son, Kenny. This past July, Dale was blessed to celebrate his 100th Birthday. He visited the bowling alley where there was a small celebration and another celebration at his home. His 97-year-old sister was able to attend which made his day. Sadly, she passed away in August. There was always a smile on his face. Those left to cherish his memory, his son, Larry William and wife, Kit of Raymore, Mo., grandsons, Ryan William and wife Charlene and their children, Tyler William and Kalena Rose of Iowa and grandson, Troy Andrew and wife Jen and son, Andrew Michael of Kansas City. Dale was an inspiration to many and he will be missed. Until we meet again in heaven, “Keep the lights on for us”. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Mt. Washington Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com. Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel, (816) 252-7900.
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Published by The Examiner from Oct. 8 to Oct. 10, 2024.