Randy Craig Parry June 21, 1949 - February 26, 2020

Randy Craig Parry, age 70, passed away February 26, 2020, at home, surrounded by his family both seen and unseen, in a room filled with love.  We are most grateful for the gifted time he was given over the past 10 years.  Because of multiple health concerns, his prolonged life has truly been a gift.

Randy was born June 21, 1949, to John Ray and Dorothy Swasey Parry, in Spanish Fork, Utah.  He was third of five sons and grew up in Mapleton, Utah, roaming the fields and hillsides in a paradise for boys to grow in.  He was educated in Mapleton and graduated as a “Mighty Red Devil” from Springville High in 1967; then, attended one year at Utah Trade Technical College (UVU).

He met Louise Nelson, from Provo, in February 1968; and they were married in Provo on January 18, 1969.   Their home was blessed by a tiny-tiny infant girl Meleena Louise, who could only stay a short time.  In 1975, they were blessed to add Kimberly Yun, born September 11, 1975, in Korea, arriving home August 1976.  Again, she could only stay a little while and slipped away January 1977.  But, Joy of Joys!  Kara Cho was born in February 1977, in Seoul, Korea, and fast-tracked home by June 1977.  The wish of Pop’s heart was filled.  He had his little girl home.  All were sealed together in the Provo Temple.

Randy was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1971, and was only required to serve for a shortened time at Fort Lewis Washington.  He honored his country and takes great pride in his country and his flag.  He worked at Pacific States Cast Iron Pipe for 41 years, completing his career there as shipping yard supervisor and finishing attached to accounting.  He was always hardworking and a dedicated worker, no matter the task.

Randy grew up pruning trees, digging ditch, hauling hay and always working hard.  He loved the outdoors whether fishing, hunting, 4-wheeler riding or sitting and rocking on the porch.  He was a natural magnet to collect kids from everybody and after two visits you belonged to the Parrys.  He loved every one of them. Not surprisingly, in time, instead of him watching out for them, they took care of him and he became their play-toy!  Thanks to each one of you. No one laughed harder or loved with arms spread wider than Randy.

He survived by his wife of 51 years; daughter and son-in-law, Kara and Andrew Woodworth; grandchildren: Briley Grace, Parker Ryan and Michael Kaden, who are Grandpa’s heart; and brother, Roger (Maxine) Parry.  Also, survived by his partners-in-crime: Jerry Orton, Bruce Lewis, Brian Nielsen and Nathan Beesley; and all of his gang, with chunks of his heart attached.  He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers: Rex (Pat) Gull, Alan Ray Parry, Ricky Lynn Parry; and  grandparents: John C and Gladys Parry, Ellis and Leona Swasey; and his two sweet Angel daughters, Meleena and Kim.

Thanks to all who have loved him and provided the abundance of love he was shown in the past week.  He was truly surprised by the scope of that love.

There will be a visitation for family and friends on Thursday evening, March 5, 2020, from 6-8 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 187 South Main, Spanish Fork, Utah.  Funeral services will be Friday, March 6, 2020 at 11 a.m., with visitation from 9:45-10:45 a.m., at the Mapleton White Church. Burial in the new Mapleton Cemetery.

Thank you for the kind and tender care given by staff at Utah Valley Hospital and Encompass Hospice Care.