Obituary - Joan L. Parks







Joan L. Parks, 55, of Parker, died at10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 12, 2008, in her residence following a two and a half year battle with Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS).

Born in Oil City Sept. 4, 1952, she was the daughter of the late Leonard "Bud" and Frances Joan Latschaw Confer.

She was Protestant by faith.

She was a 1970 graduate of Allegheny-Clarion Valley High School at Foxburg.

Mrs. Parks was employed many years at the Parker branch of Citizens National Bank (now NexTier) as custodian, as well as working for many area families doing housekeeping. She also served as caregiver for several Parker residents confined to their homes due to illness.

In 2006, the Parker Recreation Committee embarked upon a 13-year plan of selling Christmas tree decorations. Mrs. Parks' work of design appears on the 2006-07 issues, and will appear on the remaining 11 decorations in the future years. Knowing her working time of artistry was limited, she worked diligently so the committee would have these treasures to earn money for local projects.

In addition to caring for her husband and children, Mrs. Parks was known as a dedicated worker, artist, and writer of both prose and poetry. She was able to have two books of her poetry published, and countless families treasure notes written to them by her when ill health or ill fortune beset them.

In 2005 she was presented recognition by Parker Rotary for selfless time and effort given to Parker City and residents. That same year, she was presented recognition by Parker City Volunteer Department for Outstanding Community Service. In 2006, she was recognized by Parker Fire Department as Citizen of the Year, as well as receiving recognition from the state House of Representatives as Citizen of the Year through the efforts of Rep. Fred McIlhatten.

She enjoyed bird watching as well as working crossword puzzles.

Surviving are her husband: D. Scott Parks whom she married July 11, 1971; two sons: Mike Parks and wife Kristie of Parker and Kris Parks at home; one granddaughter: Mackenzie Parks of Parker; one sister, Terry Taylor of Smethport; and one brother, Alan Confer of Emlenton, and a number of nieces and nephews.

Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in the H. Jack Buzard Funeral Home, Wayne Street, Parker.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday in the funeral home with the Rev. Dan Myers, United Methodist Minister, officiating.

Interment will be in Parker Presbyterian Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to Parker Recreation Committee, in care of Mrs. Carol Bowser, P.O. Box 350, Parker, 16049.