Derold Emerson Parker

Derold Emerson Parker, 84, of North Platte, NE, passed away Friday, September 5, 2014, in North Platte. Derold was born September 12, 1929, to Omer and Esther Parker at Venango, NE where he grew up. He attended school in Venango until the 11th grade when the family moved to Brule, NE. Derold graduated from Brule High School then was drafted into the U.S. Army in August 1948. He made a career in the Army, serving for over 20 years before retiring in November 1972. He later worked for the Pioneer Seed Company for 20 years. In May of 1981, Derold married Glenna Marie Cole McGowan in Julesburg, CO. They made their home in Nebraska, living in Madrid, Wallace and North Platte. Derold was a life member of the V.F.W. Post #1504 and a member of F.O. Eagles # 2839. He was a past member of P.R. Halligan Post #163 American Legion and the Moose Lodge. He liked to fish and garden and enjoyed giving away his produce. Survivors include his wife, Glenna, of North Platte; seven sons, Jeff (Christine) Parker, of Loyal, WI, David (Heidie) Parker, of Cartersville, GA and Frank (Georgia) Parker, Phillip (Lisa) Parker, Scott Parker, Curtis Parker and Tim Parker, all of Oregon; his stepchildren, Alan (Stace) Metcalf, of Salt Lake City, UT, Susan (Bob) Weech, of Weiser, ID, Carol Metcalf, of Downie, ID and Lori (Doug) Kirts, of North Platte; numerous grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Ann (Clark) Varnum, of Cheyenne, WY and Velma Rice, of Holyoke, CO; a brother, Vernon (Sharon) Parker, of Gering, NE; a sister-in-law, Elaine Parker, of Big Springs, NE; brother-in-law, Bernard Lehn, of North Platte; many nieces, nephews and other family. Derold was preceded in death by his parents, Omer and Esther; two sister, Delores Swanson and Vivian Lehn; his brother, Allen; and two brothers-in-law, Allen Rice and Dale Swanson. Cremation was chosen. A memorial graveside service with military honors will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 10, 2014, in Fort McPherson National Cemetery with Chaplain Gary Smith officiating. The memorial book can be signed at odeanchapel.com or from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday at Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore. Memorials are suggested to the V.F.W. Post #1504. Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore is in charge of arrangements.