Donald Lester "Don" Parker, 69, passed away on December 15, 2025, in Whiting, New Jersey. Born on December 20, 1955, in Lakewood, New Jersey, Don lived a life marked by dedication to service and a deep connection to the natural world.
Don loved his years with the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, where he served as Deputy District Firewarden under the call sign B735. His commitment to protecting the state’s forests and communities reflected his respect for nature and public safety. His efforts left a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the landscapes he helped preserve.
Beyond his professional life, Don embraced hobbies that kept him close to the outdoors. He was an avid surf fisherman who cherished time along the shoreline. His love of gardening was enjoyed by anyone who viewed his gardens. In the kitchen, he found joy in cooking and enjoying the creativity through every meal.
Don was known for his sharp wit and playful sarcasm—traits that brought laughter and lightness to those around him. His humor made him a memorable presence in the lives of many.
He is survived by his daughter Melanie; his brothers Jim Parker (Bernadette), and Fred Parker; cousins Bill Gee, Martha (Gene) Hoffnagle, and Rebecca Gee; Paul (Cindy) Fuller; Peggy (Paul) Long; Gale (Mark) Armstrong; Susan (Dale) Ketcham as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Elva Parker.
A Ceremony of Life will be held at a later date. Please make any donations in Don's name to Popcorn Park Zoo & Animal Refuge 1 Humane Way, Forked River, N.J. 08731
May Don’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire laughter, resilience, and a love for nature in all who carry it forward.
Don loved his years with the New Jersey Forest Fire Service, where he served as Deputy District Firewarden under the call sign B735. His commitment to protecting the state’s forests and communities reflected his respect for nature and public safety. His efforts left a lasting impact on both his colleagues and the landscapes he helped preserve.
Beyond his professional life, Don embraced hobbies that kept him close to the outdoors. He was an avid surf fisherman who cherished time along the shoreline. His love of gardening was enjoyed by anyone who viewed his gardens. In the kitchen, he found joy in cooking and enjoying the creativity through every meal.
Don was known for his sharp wit and playful sarcasm—traits that brought laughter and lightness to those around him. His humor made him a memorable presence in the lives of many.
He is survived by his daughter Melanie; his brothers Jim Parker (Bernadette), and Fred Parker; cousins Bill Gee, Martha (Gene) Hoffnagle, and Rebecca Gee; Paul (Cindy) Fuller; Peggy (Paul) Long; Gale (Mark) Armstrong; Susan (Dale) Ketcham as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Elva Parker.
A Ceremony of Life will be held at a later date. Please make any donations in Don's name to Popcorn Park Zoo & Animal Refuge 1 Humane Way, Forked River, N.J. 08731
May Don’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire laughter, resilience, and a love for nature in all who carry it forward.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Donald Parker, please visit our flower store.
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