Parcourez la nécrologie de Donald Donnie Walton Parks Wednesday February 26th 2025 résidant dans la province Nova Scotia pour le détail des funérailles
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donald Walton Parks on Wednesday, February 26th 2025.
He was a cherished son, father, grandfather, friend, and devoted community member. Donnie was a friend to everyone, always ready with a kind word or to lend a helping hand. Whether it was sharing a good time, a yarn, or offering support during difficult times, Donnie was a source of light in the lives of those who knew him.
Donnie started his first job at the age of 15 at the IGA grocery store in Lunenburg, where he made lifelong friendships with his coworkers. After working at the store, he worked as a rink attendant at the Lunenburg Arena, and then spent a few years working at the Lunenburg Foundry in the stock room and then as an invoice clerk. Following this, Donnie moved on to work for the Town of Lunenburg for 35 years as the Superintendent of the Lunenburg and District Fire Department – a job that he made into his career and was very proud of.
Donnie was a steadfast volunteer firefighter from 1975 through 2022. After 47 years of service, he retired and became an honorary member. He dedicated a large part of his life to serving and protecting the community he loved so deeply. He completed a Fire Service Training certification through Holland College, along with many other courses increasing his knowledge in several areas of the service. Through the Fire Service Donnie connected with many friends, most of whom became more like family, and who were a great source of support during his last few months at home and in hospital. During Donnie’s time in the department, he earned the roles of Engineer, Pump Operator, Chief Engineer, Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Deputy Chief, Deputy Chief, and finally, Fire Chief for almost 10 years. Donnie received multiple awards and recognition throughout his career, notably, an Exemplary Life Saving medal through the Red Cross, which was presented to him by the Lieutenant Governor. His legacy at Lunenburg and District Fire Department will be forever remembered.
Donnie’s other interests included hockey, which he played both at the local minor hockey level, and also for the fire department team. He also enjoyed curling and baseball with his comrades from the fire department. Donnie and his family enjoyed many weekend road trips with others from the department for sports tournaments. He was a member of Branch 23 of the Royal Canadian Legion in Lunenburg for over 7 years, and after his retirement from the Firehall, he spent a few years as Head Bartender for the Lunenburg Legion, never hesitating to fill in at the bar when needed.
Donnie and his family spent countless hours in and around Lunenburg waters aboard various boats, most memorably the “Bess ‘n Lee”. Whether it was a day trip to Cross Island or a weekend at the family camps on Masons Island, the boats were always packed with food, drinks, family and friends. Donnie knew how to enjoy life.
Donnie adored his role as a father and grandfather. His greatest pride and joy were his children and grandchildren, whom he loved with all his heart. He shared his love of community with his children by involving them in many events and tasks at the Firehall and around the community. What they will remember most about their father is how unconditionally he loved and accepted them and that he would always answer the call for help. Donnie’s love for his grandchildren was boundless, and he could often be found supporting them at their sports games, taking them for a treat or going for a swim with them. When he wasn’t with them, he was often speaking of them with pride. His smiles, guidance and kindness will live on in their hearts forever.
Donnie was predeceased by his beloved brothers, Peter and Paul, by his father, Robert, brother-in-law Wayne and the mother of his children, Lynn. He is survived by his mother, Frances Parks, his sister Jane Hall (Phillip), his children Chad Parks (Marielle), Stephanie Balcome (Brad), Tyler Parks (Angie), grandchildren Harrison, Evelyn and Ava, cherished nephews and niece, and a community of friends and neighbors who will miss him deeply.
Donnie’s loved ones would like to thank those who were sources of support over the last few months, especially those who have gone above and beyond to help him. Special thanks to the friends and family who called, messaged, visited, dropped things off, and brought hope, respite, and support during the most challenging times.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Dana L. Sweeny Funeral Home, 11213 Hwy 3, Lunenburg. A service to honor Donnie’s life will be held on Thursday, March 6th at 2:00 pm at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Lunenburg, followed by internment at Hillcrest Cemetery and reception at the Lunenburg Firehall.
Donnie wanted to acknowledge the incredible comradery and support provided by his friends in the Fire Department by asking that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lunenburg and District Fire Department via e-transfer to raymond.francis@ldfd.ca or via cash or cheque dropped off at the Dana L. Sweeny Funeral Home.
Rest peacefully Donnie. Your legacy of love, service, and generosity will continue to inspire us.
Wednesday February 26th 2025
Décès pour la Ville Lunenburg, Province Nova Scotia
avis deces Donald Donnie Walton Parks Wednesday February 26th 2025
nécrologie Donald Donnie Walton Parks Wednesday February 26th 2025
Nous offrons nos plus sincères condoléances à la famille et aux amis de Donald Donnie Walton Parks Wednesday February 26th 2025 et espérons que leur mémoire pourra être une source de réconfort pendant cette période difficile. Vos pensées et vos mots aimables sont grandement appréciés.