Gerald Walter Parkinson, 81, peacefully passed away January 6, 2019, at his home in Lawrence, KS. He was a devoted husband, dad and granddad.
Gerry was born February 10, 1937 in Dewsbury, England, the son of Vernon and Kitty Parkinson. He attended Bradford Grammar School, earned a degree from Imperial College London, and served in the Royal Air Force. In 1966, he was recruited by Sikorsky Aircraft, in Connecticut, as an electrical engineer. He married Sandra Waterhouse on May 19, 1973 in Stratford, CT. He retired from Sikorsky after 31 years, and he and his family moved to Lawrence, KS.
Gerry was an avid bird watcher and also enjoyed playing golf, watching English soccer, listening to jazz, reading, traveling, taking his dog for walks, and meeting friends weekly at a local bar. His love of nature was evident from his participation in annual bird counts, maintenance of blue bird boxes at Clinton State Park, and help in rehabilitating wild animals. His kind spirit, intellect and sense of humor will always be remembered.
Gerry is survived by Sandra, his wife of 45 years; son Andrew (Vivian) Parkinson; daughter Sarah (Matt) Forshee; grandchildren Marlena, Kaitlyn and Parker; and sister-in-law Carole Rasmusson.
A celebration of Gerry’s life will be held at a later date at Smoky Hill Cemetery in Lindsborg, KS.
