Robert "Bob" A. Parks, 94, of John Knox Village formerly of Mission, KS, passed away Saturday at his home with his wife Nancy by his side.

Bob was born November 8, 1919 to the late Miles and Lelia Parks in Delphos, Kansas. After graduating from high school Bob volunteered for the U.S. Navy in January of 1942. He served aboard the USS Levy (DE-1623) in the Pacific Theater and was present during the first surrender of a Japanese island of the war. The ship and crew earned four battle stars for their sacrifices in combat during the war.

Bob kept in touch with his shipmates and organized several reunions in the Kansas City area. After returning from the war Bob settled in Clay Center, KS and started a family farm. He married Irene Koch March 20, 1949; she preceded him in death in November 1999. They had three children that survive, Ronald R. Parks and wife Mary; Sheila R. Brady and husband James; Lu Ann Posey and husband Dennis.

In 1962 he accepted a position with the IRS in Kansas City, KS and worked there until his retirement. Bob was an active member of the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, where he held numerous offices including Treasurer and President.

On January 1, 2001, Bob married Nancy Burton in Overland Park, she survives of the home. Also surviving, two brothers, Richard Parks and George Parks; four grandchildren, Jason Brady, Kristal Spurlock, Justin Posey and Brandon Posey; four great grandchildren, Mason Brady, Makayla Brady, Lyndee Spurlock, James Spurlock; three step-children, Robert Burton, Michael Burton and Martha (Howard) Roe; and many other family and friends. Bob is also preceded in death by a brother; Miles Parks, Jr. and sister Mildred Shivers.

Visitation and Services

Funeral services will be 2 pm Thursday, April 24 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 5601 W. 62nd Street, Mission, KS 66202. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 pm Wednesday, at the John Knox Village Chapel, 400 NW Murray Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64081. Burial with military honors will be at Johnson County Memorial Gardens.