August 13, 1928 - June 30, 2021
Gone Fishin'
August 13, 1928 - Ponoka, Alberta June 30, 2021 - Qualicum Beach, BC
Wayne Kenneth Parks was born in Ponoka Alberta on Aug 13, 1928, the youngest child of Ralph & Annie Parks. He grew up enjoying the fun loving, mischievous freedom of a small prairie town childhood. Early on he showed the hard working, entrepreneurial spirit and easy smile that he carried for 92 years.
Some of his childhood escapades made him well known in the little town, capers like, selling his dog for a nickel, to folks who were obviously well aware of his little scam, then yelling "Come on Teddy" and he and the dog would run off, or skipping school to cut Xmas trees, then selling the trees to the teachers whose classes he had skipped.
In the oilfield services industry Wayne was a born salesman, inventor, and entrepreneur, always imagining ways that things could be improved. Over lunch he frequently would sketch ideas on handy napkins, and then mull them over, usually on several more napkins, until they came to fruition.
Over his career he started and managed several companies and developed several tools. He had the kind of ability and hard work ethic that enabled him to retire early and enjoy life "on the island." He capped a business career with success and enjoyment when he and his wife Pat worked together.
Wayne married Jacqueline King in 1950. Together they had 3 sons and a family filled with activity and love. They moved and made friends in several towns in Alberta and Saskatchewan, finally ending up in Calgary.
In 1973 he married his "soul-mate" Patricia, with whom he shared a long, happy marriage filled with an abundance of love and laughs. Together Pat and Wayne designed their dream houses, golfed, travelled, cruised and enjoyed life and each other's company. They spent part time living in California and part time in Eagle Crest in Qualicum before settling fulltime in Qualicum Beach.
His ready smile, quick wit and outgoing ways made him a wide circle of friends. Family was always first and foremost for Wayne. When he married Patricia his family circle expanded to include Pat's daughter, Cindy, who along with her family became very special to him. His three boys and Pat's daughter and their families loved to visit and spend time because Grandpa was alway excited to see them.
A highlight for "the kids" and grandkids was to spend the day with Dad salmon fishing on his boat. It was an adventure and time together that he and they all treasured.
Wayne is remembered by his wife Pat, sons: Ralph (Jo-Anne), Blaine (Sandra), Trent (Linda), Pat's daughter Cindy (Bruce) Gibson, 8 grandchildren, and 12 Great-grandchildren. A family remembrance will be held at a later date.
Good bye, Wayne, Dad, Grandpa, we will miss you and always love you.
In lieu of flowers please give to the charity of your choice.