Chuck Parker

Charles H. Parker, age 64, of Lamar, passed away Saturday, January 13, 2018, at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin following a long illness.      Chuck was born September 6, 1953 in Kansas City, Missouri to Sandy and Violet (Carmack) Ambler. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, James Parker.      Over the years, Chuck had been a truck driver, delivering lumber for Tapjac, mail for the Postal Service and propane for home heating services. He had also worked off and on as a tree trimmer. Chuck’s mental and physical strength, tenacity, and work ethic enabled him to meet challenges head-on and he was always willing to stand for what he considered important. An avid outdoorsman, a great day for Chuck would be one spent on his Harley-Davidson or at a favorite fishing spot while camping at the lake. He held a fascination with trains and never lost his interest in learning, whether it was through time spent in nature, a documentary or infomercial on television, or a lively conversation with friends.      Survivors include his son, Chad Parker (fiancé Casey) of Lamar; two daughters, Heather (Jim) Althouse, Olathe, Kansas and Kassi Parker (fiancé Mark) of Eldorado Springs, Missouri; two brothers, Will (Betty) Parker, Lamar and Frank (Michelle) Ambler, Belton, Missouri; nine grandchildren, Joseph Overturf, Kylie Davey, Ariel and Bryce Althouse, Brittany and Josh Schweitzer, Lynzi, Blake, and Carly Taylor; and several nieces and nephews.      Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday at Daniel Funeral Home where the family will receive friends from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. Thursday.      Memorial contributions are suggested to the Parker family or National Kidney Foundation in care of the funeral home.