Cover photo for Donald A. Parry's Obituary
Donald A. Parry Profile Photo
In Memory Of
Donald A. Parry
1929 2024

Donald A. Parry

August 10, 1929 — February 11, 2024

Rochester-

Passed away on February 11, 2024 at the age of 94.

Predeceased by his wife, Gretchen of 58 years; parents, Silas & Florence Parry; brothers-in-law, Robert Heath, Jim Seager & Fred Martin; sisters-in-law, June Parry, Sandy Martin & Margo Seager.

He is survived by his children, Allen (Edith) Parry, Laural (Joseph) Jacobs & Linda Parry; 12 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great grandchildren; brother, Dr. William Parry; sister, Helen Heath; several nieces, nephews & many-many friends.

Don grew up in Elmira, attending public schools, graduating from Elmira Free Academy in 1947. He had the additional challenge of having his father as one of the vice principals at the school. He entered the University of Rochester in the fall and graduated in 1951. He briefly attended Syracuse University with plans to become a history teacher, but in August of '52 he was offered a position in the Alumni office at the U of R, which he accepted.
He married the love of his life, Gretchen Towner, on November 15, 1952 in Bath, NY. He remained with the Alumni office for the next 8 years. In 1960 he became the first director of the University of Rochester Conference Office, a position he held until December 31, 1995 when he retired.

He enjoyed sports- following baseball, particularly the Baltimore Orioles, basketball and golf. He was an avid bowler- always in 2 or 3 leagues until his late 80's. He volunteered at Genesee Country Village- first in the membership booth and then as a painter and coordinator of the Nutt family painters. He often remarked that he should go back to work so he could get some rest as he was so busy in retirement.
He lost the love of his life in 2010 after being her caretaker through the journey of Alzheimer's. Dad had a life well lived. Please join us for a celebration of his life.

Family will receive friends Friday February 23, 2024 from 10:00am - 12:00pm, immediately following will be a service at 12:00pm at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 2636 Ridgeway Avenue.

Please click here to view Donald's service.

Interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery,1133 Mt. Hope Avenue, Rochester, NY 14620.

Contributions may be made to: Genesee Country Village & Museum or a charity of your choosing

To share a memory of Don or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Donald A. Parry, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Visitation

Friday, February 23, 2024

10:00am - 12:00 pm (Eastern time)

New Comer Cremations & Funerals

2636 Ridgeway Avenue, Rochester, NY 14626

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Service

Friday, February 23, 2024

New Comer Cremations & Funerals

2636 Ridgeway Avenue, Rochester, NY 14626

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Enter your phone number above to have directions sent via text. Standard text messaging rates apply.

Guestbook

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