Gary Lee Parsons (Gar, Big Gar, Pop and Dad) loving father, grandfather, husband, and friend went to be with his heavenly Father at the age of 81. Gary is embraced in heaven by his wife Barbara, brother John, mother Harriett, and by his father John.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky, Gary and his younger brother John could hear the horse races at Churchill Downs from the front porch of their house. Young Gary was a rule follower and enjoyed Saturday mornings at the YMCA helping lead the local "Urchins" to make good choices. Gary enjoyed gymnastics and had a passion fo swimming and later the ocean, which he passed on to his kids. After studying chemical engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Gary went on to a successful career in chemical sales and consulting. He was known as a straight shooter but not a fast talker, although his love for conversation mixed with his boisterous laugh was evident to all that knew him. After landing his first job with Jones-Dabney in his early twenties, Gary was offered an emerging sales territory in Los Angeles where he jumped at the chance to immerse in the California lifestyle of "movie stars, beaches and girls running around in bikinis." Gary later went on to work for Norman, Fox & Co. where he settled into a long and successful career.

In his late twenties, Gary met his future wife Barabara on a blind date to the movie Yellow Submarine before spoiling her with dinner at Arby's. Barbara thought he was cheap. This anecdote went on to be a running joke at the Parsons' house which was often filled with humor and laughter. Gary and Barabara married in 1969 and started a family in Torrance, CA. In 1974, Barbara, Gary, and their two toddler sons moved into the new development of Mission Viejo, CA, a place he would always call home. Daughter Kate arrived shortly thereafter. A truly committed husband and father, Gary made sure to attend all of his kids' school and sporting events, often coaching or refereeing their youth sports.

Gary is survived by his three children Brad, Greg and Kate, and six grandchildren whom he cherished. Gary and Barbara loved their children and grandchildren very much…. nearly as much as their next set of "children'' (the golden retrievers) whom they had a passion for walking around the neighborhood and Lake Mission Viejo. Their beloved dogs lived good lives.

Gary and Barbara's kids and many grandkids thank you for your kind thoughts.

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