ROBERT JACK PARKER

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ROBERT JACK PARKER Surrounded by his family, Robert Jack Parker passed away peacefully at Victoria General Hospital in Winnipeg on Saturday, October 30, 2010 at the age of 75. He is survived by his beloved wife Margaret (nee Borland); his children, Robert (Valerie), Andrew (Kathy), Wendy (Nestor), David (Lisa); granddaughters, Sophie and Grace; step-grandchildren, Zack and Nicole; sister Annabel; brother Jackie and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Jane Parker of Beith, Scotland; brother William of Dalry; and granddaughter Annabel Margaret. Robert was born on April 18, 1935 in Beith, Scotland. He had an idyllic childhood growing up on a dairy farm and displayed academic promise at a young age. He attended Beith Academy, Speers School and received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Glasgow and a Diploma in Dairy Science from the University of Reading. While studying in Glasgow, he met Margaret Wallace Borland in 1955 and they were married in 1959 at the Burns Monument Hotel in Ayr. A week later, they immigrated to Canada where Dad continued his studies - receiving a Master of Science from the University of Guelph and a Ph.D in Animal Genetics from Michigan State University graduating as a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honour Society. Upon graduation, he accepted an academic post at the University of Manitoba in 1966. As Professor, he served the University with distinction until his retirement in 1997, receiving many awards and accolades for his roles as lecturer, researcher and administrator. After his retirement, he was honoured to have the title Professor Emeritus conferred upon him and a graduate fellowship set up in his name. Dad enjoyed a rich and full life. He enjoyed playing golf, meeting friends at the Reh-Fit Centre, gardening with Mom and spending time with his much beloved granddaughters, Sophie and Grace. He had a love of dogs that he shared with his family. Long talks with his children and friends were always highlights for him. He treasured every moment spent with Mom. Despite his achievements in work and the community, Dad's legacy will be his role as husband, father and grandfather. He offered guidance, support and unconditional love in all facets of his family's journey through life. His passion for life, sharp wit, warm laughter and care for others are just a few of the many things we will miss and his unrelenting devotion to his family serves as an example to us all of how we can aspire to achieve a full, joyful and meaningful life. A memorial service took place on Thursday, November 4 at 2:00 p.m. at Thomson In the Park Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Blvd. The family would like to express profound gratitude to Dr. Brian Sharkey and the nursing staff of 4 North at the Victoria General Hospital for their kind compassionate care and guidance that helped make Dad's remaining days with us peaceful. In lieu of flowers, donations in Dad's memory may be made to The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba or to the Robert J. Parker Fellowship in Animal Science at the University of Manitoba. THOMSON IN THE PARK 925-1120 Condolences may be sent to www.thomsoninthepark.com

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 06, 2010