Rizal Parel

Rizal Parel, aged 76, of Louisville, KY, passed away peacefully in his sleep on September 23, 2024. Born on October 30, 1947 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Rizal migrated to Louisville, KY for greener pastures in the early 1970s determined to build a better life for his family. After a couple years of gaining his footing, Nelly and their two sons, Ritche and Allen, joined Rizal, reuniting them to begin their life in America. A couple years later their daughter, Mylene was able to finally join them. After getting settled, they welcomed their last baby, Christine. Rizal was then able to petition his mom and other siblings to join him in the U.S.

Rizal lived a life blessed with charisma, intelligence, and a vibrant, spirited sense of humor, often being the life of the party and beloved for his jokes. He was a generous man, often opening his home to family members and friends that were in transition in their lives. He had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel cared for and valued, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Rizal devoted much of his professional life to education, starting at Home of the Innocence and taught adult education at Durrett High School. Rizal was a math and science teacher for many years at Iroquois High School and Fern Creek High School. He was also a proud alumnus of the Philippine College of Arts and Trade. Beyond his career, Rizal was an active member of the Filipino community, where he enjoyed social gatherings, playing mahjong and cards, and gambling on the casino boats with friends. He was a devout attendee of Ascension Catholic church, where his funeral services will be held.

Rizal is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Nenita "Nelly" Parel; his children Ritche (Anne) Parel, with granddaughters, Paige and Paisly, Allen (Dulce) Parel with grandsons Myles and Ben, Christine (Ben) Cobbs, with grandsons Silas and Oliver; siblings, Milagros Artajos, Fructuoso (Thelma) Parel Jr, Elvira Parel, Jessie (Nelly) Parel, Bella Parel, & Roger (Ninfa) Parel. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fructuoso Parel Sr. and Eleuteria Parel; his daughter, Mylene Parel; and his brother, Pancho Parel.

The family invites those who wish to celebrate Rizal's life to join them at Ascension Catholic Church, 4600 Lynnbrook Dr., Louisville, KY 40220 on October 26, 2024 at 11am. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be directed to the Hildegard House.