RUMFORD — Donat Cyr “Giz” Parent, 85, passed away Thursday, April 6, at the Rumford Community Home in Rumford, surrounded by his loved ones.

He was born Oct. 31, 1931, in Rumford, the son of Donat and Evelyn (Dorion) Parent. He was educated in the schools of Rumford and graduated in 1949. He went on to serve active duty in the U.S. Navy for four years and served aboard the USS Toledo CA-133 as radio man. After that he worked at the Kittery Naval Shipyard until his retirement.

Giz was an avid kayaker, mountain climber, cross-country skier and bicyclist. He was an AMCA member, climbing all of the mountains of Maine and New Hampshire. He introduced all of his nieces and nephews to the sports, forming lasting memories of their times spent with him. He inspired a yearly summer camping “Parent Reunion” weekend for the family, which continues to this day, along with its renowned cribbage tournament. More importantly, Giz was an outstanding surrogate father to his family. He was their rock from their youth right until the end!

He is survived by his brother, Joseph (Dick) Parent and wife, Angie; sister, Evelyn (Sis) Haines and husband, Eugene; and his brother, Timothy D. Parent and wife, Jackie. His many nieces and nephews are Sharon Kauffman, Mike Parent, John Parent, Jim Parent, David Parent, Bente’ Jordan, Casey Parent, Allie Kelley, Dorna Bureau and Eugene W. Haines. As well, he had many friends he remained close with.

At this time, Donat’s family want to send their thanks and gratitude for the consistent, outstanding, loving care given by Dr. Kreckle and staff at the Rumford Community Home and Beacon Hospice staff.

The family asks that condolences and memories be shared on his memorial wall at www.wilesrc.com.

Donat ‘Giz’ Parent

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