Rick Parker

Rick L. Parker, age 67, passed away peacefully at his home on April 17, 2016, following a courageous battle with cancer.  He is survived by his special friend and wife of 28 years, Susan Parker.  He is further survived by daughter, Cynthia Allison and husband Mike Allison, and their three children, Boone Allison, Kyle Allison, and Adeline Allison; daughter, Melissa Ronick and her daughter Maya Ronick; son, Lance Burch and wife Jamie Burch, and their daughters, Jordan Burch and Allison Burch; son, Brett Burch and his children, Megan Burch, Amelia Burch, Lorelai Burch, Shannon Burch, and Meredith Burch; and son, Jarrod Burch and wife Becky Burch, and their sons, Cody Burch and Zachary Burch.

Rick was a life long coal miner, having worked in the mines for over forty years.  He was one of two survivors of the March 11, 1976, Scotia Mine explosion.  Following the disaster, Rick courageously continued to work in the mines, providing a good life for his family.  Although working in the mines was a difficult and physical job, he loved the challenges and the camaraderie that working in the mines provided.

Rick was a 1966 graduate of Harlan High School.  He was an outstanding student and athlete for the Green Dragons.  In subsequent years, he could still be seen in the stands and in the audience of Harlan Independent events as he supported his children and grandchildren in all their activities.

Rick was also a lover of the outdoors.  He was an avid hunter and fisherman.  He was instrumental in instilling the love of the mountains and nature into his children and grandchildren.  In addition, Rick loved sports.  For several years, he refereed high school football, and umpired high school baseball. Rick also coached the Bank of Harlan senior league team and the Harlan All-Star team for many years.  He made a positive impact on many young men during his time as coach.

Most of all, Rick was a family man.  When faced with his mortality, his first words were, “I have had a great life. I raised 5 great children, and I have 13 wonderful grandchildren.”  He was always smiling and joking.  He was a kind and generous person who would give you the shirt off his back if he knew you had a need.  He has left this world a better place by the imprint he left on his children, grandchildren, and others who had the chance to know him.  He is greatly missed.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 29, 2016 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. at the Anderson-Laws & Jones Funeral Home with Memorial Service to be held immediately following at 3:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions should be made to either Hospice of the Bluegrass, 2972 South U.S. Highway 25E, Barbourville, KY 40906, the HHS Marching Band, or the Harlan Boys Choir, 420 E. Central Street Harlan, KY 40831.

Anderson-Laws & Jones Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Rick L. Parker.