Richard  Walter “Rich” Parry (September 27, 1936 - February 19, 2024)

In loving memory of
Richard Walter “Rich” Parry
  • September 27, 1936
  • -
  • February 19, 2024

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Obituary

We announce with heavy hearts the passing of Richard Walter “Rich” Parry, who was called to his heavenly home at the age of 87 on February 19, 2024, in Cape Coral, Florida with his loving wife of nearly 70 years, Lois Ellen Parry by his side. Born on September 27, 1936, in Akron, Ohio, Rich was the third child of William S. & Lucille C. Parry.  His life, characterized by modesty, gratitude, and a deep appreciation for God’s creation, was a blessing to his family and all who knew him.

Rich received his education at Western Reserve Academy before advancing to Oberlin College then GMI (Kettering University) earning his Master’s degree in mechanical engineering at U of M. His esteemed career began at General Motors in Flint, MI and culminated in a respected position at the GM Headquarters in Detroit. Rich’s professional life was characterized by his dedication to his craft and his role as a prominent Chairperson of the ASME.  He served as an expert witness in his field after retiring from GM.

Rich was a man of deep faith and commitment to his church, serving with distinction at the Christian & Missionary Alliance Church in Flint, Michigan, and later at the First Assembly of God in Ft. Myers. His contributions to the church community, particularly as a Sunday school teacher, were both valued and impactful.

Outside of his professional and spiritual commitments, Rich found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He had a passion for operating heavy machinery until 4 years ago when he decided it was time to act his age! He enjoyed traveling with Lois, the grandchildren & great-grandchildren in the motorhome, embarking on many memorable adventures together.

Rich leaves behind his dear wife, Lois Ellen Parry; his children, Lynn Isaacson (Mike), Richard (Lori), Jeffrey (Tanya), David (Francine), and Daniel Parry; along with a legacy of 12 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and siblings Stuver & James Parry & Linda (Ken) Cochran.  His passing was preceded by that of his parents and brothers, George, Peter, & Ted.

Committal of his earthly body will be Thursday, February 29th at 11am at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens 1589 Colonial Blvd., Ft Myers, FL.

A Celebration of Life service to honor Rich will be held on Saturday, April 20th, in Michigan. The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Port Canaveral Ministry in Cape Canaveral, Florida, (www.cpm.life) or Convoy of Hope in Springfield, Missouri, (convoyofhope.org) in memory of Rich.

Rich’s life was a living example of integrity, hard work, and compassion. As we gather to remember him, we take comfort in the knowledge that he is now at peace with our Lord. May his memory be a source of strength and inspiration to us all.


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  1. David Parry posted an image:
    12 Aug 2024
    Dad loved having family together for a meal and conversation. I miss his wisdom, council and friendship beyond measure!
    Dad loved having family together for a meal and conversation. I miss his wisdom, council and friendship beyond measure!

  2. Jennifer Glen posted an image:
    11 Apr 2024
    Jennifer and the world's best grandpa
    Jennifer and the world's best grandpa

  3. Mark Webster says:
    29 Feb 2024
    My condolences to the family. Rich was a long time friend and a valued colleague. Words can't describe my respect and admiration for this man. Always thoughtful, always respectful, but spoke his mind. His immense knowledge and wisdom will be greatly missed at ASME. Rich was instrumental in creating the Vertical Reciprocating Conveyor industry, which I worked in for 35 years at Pflow Industries. Rich fought for the industry because he had a strong conviction that this product helped companies, such as GM, to operate more efficiently and importantly, safer. As Chair of the ASME B20.1 safety standards committee for conveyors in 2008, he authored a joint A17/B20 white paper that forever changed the industry. Everyone in the VRC industry shares a debt of gratitude to Rich. Without him, the industry may not have survived. It was a great run Rich, I hope to see you on the other side.

  4. Donald pintacura says:
    28 Feb 2024
    Here's to a man that to me has been a great teacher of life, and will remain a dear blessed friend forever. I love you Rich

  5. Stephanie Gardner says:
    28 Feb 2024
    Rich was my sage. The man I went to for guidance and advice. He was like a brother, like my Dad, never judging, always loving. I miss you so much!!!

  6. Bill Phillips says:
    28 Feb 2024
    Rich and I served together on the ASME B20 Committee for over 30 years. When I first joined the committee as a young member, Rich let me know what I didn’t know about conveyors but was also helpful with the concerns I had for the industry I represented. Rich was a leader on the committee, dedicated, persistent, and highly principled but we always had a few laughs. Rich and I both lived in Florida (about 2.5 hours apart) but were not able to catch up as unfortunately happens too often in life.
    The Committee will miss his dedication and input and I’ll miss a good one. My heartfelt thoughts for your family Rich, and I’m sure you’re working to make Heaven a better place for those to come.

  7. Jeff MacDonald says:
    28 Feb 2024
    I have so many fond memories of growing up next door. When we needed help with our steers, or anything, he was always there to help. Always smiling and cheerful! God bless your family.

  8. David Gardner says:
    28 Feb 2024
    I will miss him terribly. He was my best friend always there when I needed him.
    He was a great an of God.
    And his integrity. Unblemished He has graduated to the place he lived to go.

  9. Bill Phillips says:
    28 Feb 2024
    Rich and I served together on the ASME B20 Committee for over 30 years. When I joined as a younger member, Rich let me know what I didn't know about conveyors but was also quick to help with the concerns I brought from the industry I represented. He was dedicated and highly principled, but we always had a few laughs. With both of us living in Florida (about 2.5 hours apart) we should have but were never able to get together which unfortunately happens too often in life.
    The committee will definitely miss his input and dedication and I'll miss another good one. My heartfelt thoughts for your family Rich and enjoy your place in heaven.

  10. Robert Swinderman says:
    28 Feb 2024
    I only knew Rich for the last 10 years or so on the ASME B20.1 Conveyor Safety Committee. He had a great depth of knowledge about safety and the history of conveyor safety. He will be missed greatly. May God bless his soul.

  11. Josh Parry says:
    28 Feb 2024
    Even from the other side of the world he loved, supported and gave great guidance during my whole life.
    A man I look up to in my life and the best Grandfather a man could ask for.
    Love you Grandpa.

  12. Veronica Glen posted an image:
    27 Feb 2024
    Visit to LG
    Visit to LG

  13. Veronica Glen posted an image:
    27 Feb 2024


  14. Debbie and Tom Warren says:
    27 Feb 2024
    What a beautiful tribute.

  15. Mike Glen posted an image:
    27 Feb 2024
    After my graduation in 2005
    After my graduation in 2005

  16. Stephanie Schuchardt says:
    27 Feb 2024
    He was the BEST GRANDPA a girl could have! We will miss him greatly!
    -Stephanie Gwen

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