Delbert James Parsons

Delbert James Parsons
Frankfort, MI
January 19, 1944 - September 9, 2024
Delbert James Parsons, known affectionately as Del, passed away on September 9, 2024, at home in Frankfort, Michigan at the age of 80. Born in Frankfort on January 19, 1944, at Paul Oliver Hospital, Del lived a full and loving life. Del is survived by his wife of 62 years, Sharon Margaret (Johnson) Parsons. Their story began in junior high when they became "sweethearts", leading to their marriage on December 29, 1962, a day Del always remembered as the "luckiest day of my life." Together, they raised their four children: Stephanie Strang (Bill Kerker), Scott Parsons (Kim), Eric Parsons (Ava Ballo), and Jennifer Elkins (Kurt Lamer). Del was also a cherished grandfather to three granddaughters: Rachael, Bailey, Jazelle, and four grandsons: Addison, Zachary, Grady, Jorden. Above all else, Del was the most proud of his family. He was predeceased by his parents, Earl and Hazel (Stoops) Parsons, his sister, Barbara Miller, and his brother, Earl Parsons Jr. Del made an impact wherever he was. Always a lifelong, devoted Frankfort High School Panther, he was a standout athlete in both basketball and football around Northern Michigan in the early 60's. He also was a part of the original Frankfort golf team. During this time, he received multiple awards and recognition for his athleticism. In 2000, Del was named to the Frankfort Panther All-Century Team to honor the school's first 100 years of football. Del, always an entrepreneur, began with his business endeavors in 1962 with Northland Pizza in downtown Frankfort. That very pizza oven ended up in Del's garage years later where he continued to make pizzas for family and friends. After a period of time, he established Parsons Marine & Maintenance Service and owned that business until 1988. Del also was the proud charter boat captain of the Tadpolly from 1967 to 2000. He loved to let people know that he was one of the original charter boat captains out of the Frankfort harbor. Fishing was his lifelong passion! Additionally, he was a proud original owner of North Star Marina in Elberta. Following that he owned rental investment properties in Grand Rapids, MI. Retiring in 2006 and Del & Sharon began spending winters in the Myrtle Beach, SC area allowing him to enjoy golf year around. You could usually find Del driving around Frankfort/Elberta, the "valley" as he called it, daily from the time he was a young age up until shortly before his passing. He was a "fixture" around his beloved town. Del was passionate about the Frankfort lighthouse, a symbol of his love for Lake Michigan and Frankfort. As a child, he spent much time on the pier where he began fishing at a very young age with a cane pole. As an adult the lighthouse was a beacon guiding him for many years on the Lake Michigan waters. To honor his memory, the family invites contributions to be made to the Frankfort Lighthouse Restoration Project. Donations can be made to Frankfort City Hall, 412 Main Street, Frankfort, MI 49635, or online at https://givebutter.com/c/5ToYa3. Please mention Del's name in the "In Memory Of" section. A celebration of life, "Dad's Day," will be held next summer, for all to gather to share stories and pay respects. Details of the event will be announced later. The family expresses gratitude to Hospice of Michigan for their guidance and care before Del's passing. Del's legacy of commitment and community spirit will be fondly remembered and cherished by all who knew him. Arrangements with Jowett Family Funeral Home.