Kenneth Ray Parks passed away peacefully in his sleep March 11, 2026. He was born August 11, 1938 to Robert and Anne Parks of Centralia.
Kenneth spent two years in the Marine Corps with his brother, Robert. He married Venita Rusk in 1966. His only child, Laura, was born in 1968. He later divorced in 1974 and never remarried.
Kenneth was a most wonderful and devoted Daddy. He was Laura’s whole world. In his eyes Laura was perpetually four. He was the perfect “weekend” father, planning his days off (weekdays) to be with his daughter. Many times he worked eight hours then drove over 100 miles with little or no sleep to stay at the Ramada and take Laura to school. He NEVER missed a visit. Laura returned home with a gift and cried herself to sleep after visits until she was 12. When she moved back to Centralia, visits consisted of his car and pocket change.
Kenneth was an exceptional scholar. He graduated from SIU with honors and a Masters Degree in Education, but chose Burlington Northern Railroad over teaching. He worked for the railroad from 1978 until he retired in 2000, relocating to Centralia to be close to his family. Kenneth had an active social life with good friends and the Pancake House.
Kenneth was also an incredibly talented portrait painter, painting portraits of many stars. John Wayne was his favorite and his renditions were remarkable. He won many ribbons for his works, especially his daughter’s portraits.
After a fall in 2019, Kenneth went to live with Laura until his passing in the house that his father, Robert, built in 1943. Robert and grandson, Collin, both passed away in the home as well. It is truly a family home and most precious.
Laura hired a good friend and actual relative (3rd cousin), Jerry Pfister, to help care for him so Kenneth’s last few months he was cared for exceptionally well.
Kenneth is survived by his daughter, Laura, and significant other, Kurtis Zimmerman, of fourteen years, who also helped care for Kenneth his last four years; older brother, widower, Robert Parks (Hazel); nephews Tony Parks (Dawn) and Robert Parks (Barbra); grandson Kyle Marshall.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, grandson, Collin Ray Marshall (1997) and Seth Issac Marshall (1999).
There will be no public visitation. Kenneth will be cremated and his ashes returned to Laura to rest next to Kurtis’ mother in their home. In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to cover final expenses.
Kenneth was kind and had a gentle soul. He was recently saved and baptized so I am certain Collin Ray was waiting to bring him home.
