David J.J. Parker, 55, of Dudley died Friday, February 19th in Harrington Hospital. Born in Ware the son of David T. and Theresa (Derosier) Parker and attended North Brookfield Elementary School with his brother, Dustin. David graduated in 1987 from South High School, Worcester.
He began his career as a bagger at Price Chopper and later at Big Y Supermarkets in Spencer. He saved his hard-earned money and purchased an Appaloosa therapy horse, Cameo, for one whole dollar. He earned his share of blue ribbons at White Oak Therapeutic Riding Program in Jefferson. He was an active member of Camp Marshall Horse Club, Spencer, logging in many ten-mile group miles. David loved vacationing on the Maine seacoast with his family, chowing down on lobster mac and cheese and blueberry pie at the Maine Diner. Walking the marginal way and building sandcastles with his brother at Ogunquit Beach. Fixing things that weren’t broken at Grandpa Henry’s Fix-It Shop. He enjoyed canoeing at Wells Park, country music concerts at Indian Ranch, dances at the Center of Hop but especially his daily cup of DD ice coffee and munchkins.
David made many new friends at the Embrace Day program in Worcester. Horticulture, arts, and crafter were his favorite.
He lived independently for thirty years at Astorwood Place in Spencer before relocating to Dudley. He was a member of Mary Queen of the Rosary Church, Spencer.
He leaves his parents and his “Baby Brother” Dustin Parker of Charlton; an uncle, Richard Parker and his wife, Nancy of West Brookfield; an aunt, Janyce Parker of West Brookfield; an aunt, Jeanne Lytle, and husband, Bill of Brookfield, an aunt, Norma Cernauskas of North Brookfield; many cousins and friends.
David’s graveside service will be held on Wednesday, February 24th at 11:00 AM in Mary, Queen of the Rosary Cemetery, West Main Street, Spencer, MA 01562. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mary, Queen of the Rosary Parish, 46 Maple Street, Spencer, MA 01562. A celebration of David’s life will be held in the spring for friends and family. O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family with arrangements.