Charles Parker

Charles William Parker, 85, of Maplewood Road, Guys Mills, passed away unexpectedly at his daughter’s home in West Virginia on March 13, 2020. Charles was born August 23, 1934, one of six children of Carl and Mattie Logan Parker of Guys Mills. He attended Randolph and Saegertown schools and in 1955 he married Myrna Darleen Reagle Parker who preceded him in death one year ago. A quiet and stoic man, Charlie lived his life on his family’s farm in Guys Mills. He grew up loving horses and mules, buying his first pony at the age of 13, and traveling and riding sale horses for Kenny Kightlinger of Venango. Charlie worked horses in the woods with his father-in-law Emmett Reagle of Saegertown before hiring on with the railroad. He worked 3rd shift at Talon Manufacturing while continuing the family farm with his sons, and eventually retired from Talon. Charlie was a regular fixture at the Crawford County Fair, Meadville Livestock Auction and for many years at the Silver Spur’s 4-H practice ring. Many may remember him for his childhood boxing matches, his beef sticks, or his wagon and pony rides at the Greenleaf and REA annual picnics. Driving his horses and mules at the fair, and participating on Wagon Trains including family trips, the Bicentennial Wagon Train of 1976, and the annual Appalachian Wagon Trains were a favorite pastime. Charlie took great pride in his children, who survive: Debbie Pipp (Kevin) of Meadville, Phil and Steve Parker of Guys Mills and Brenda Harman (Woody) of West Virginia. In addition, he leaves behind a sister, Sara Bahurinsky. He is preceded in death by two brothers, Daniel and Albert Parker, and two sisters Harriet Vergith and Katherine Mulidoro. Charlie has six grandchildren, Heather Parker Irons (Clint), Shannan Harman Tucker (Kirk), Ashley Parker Chapin (Chad), Carl Parker, Sylvia Parker Shidemantle (Cody) and Marshall Parker, as well as nine great-grandchildren. Due to COVID-19 safety concerns, a gathering for family and friends is being postponed until a later date. Interment will be at the Townville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Silver Spurs 4H Club or the Saddle Horse Department of the Crawford County Fair (Either can be sent c/o Tina Caldwell, 11167 Ralston Road, Titusville, PA 16354). Arrangements are in the care of Ryan M. Warren Funeral Home, 544 Chestnut Street, Meadville. Please take a moment to share a memory or condolence on Charlie's Book of Memories online at www.WarrenFH.com.