Gerald Kenneth Parkes

Gerald Kenneth Parkes, age 88, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 1, 2026, at Teresian House in Albany, New York.

Born on January 14,1938, in Kingston, New York. Gerald was the beloved son of the late Frank Parkes and Hazel Kelder Parkes. He lived a life defined by hard work, faith, devotion to family, and a genuine kindness that touched all who knew him. A true patriot, Gerald served three years in the United States Navy and reflected fondly on his service time and experiences with his fellow sailors.

Gerald dedicated many years of his career as an engineer and head of R&D with Rotron Inc. Ametek in Woodstock, New York where he was respected for his strong work ethic, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Traveling daily between multiple Rotron sites along Route 375, his accomplishments included the design and manufacturing of military and industrial prototypes relating to the defense of our country. The last stop along Route 375 was his favorite - Hurley Ridge Market. His entrance to the store was often greeted with boisterous rounds of "Hi Ger!!" from behind the counter.

Gerald was a talented woodworker who took pride in creating with his hands. He enjoyed reading, listening to music, tending to his yard, playing cards, and "puttering" around the house. Those who knew him well also knew of his affection for his cherished Honey Brown Beer.

Raising his family on Morgan Hill Road, Gerald took pride in building his home of more than 30 years with the assistance of his three brothers. Despite the warmth of the home, the property was best known for the "Big Rock" where his children and those from the Hill enjoyed climbing to the top and eating peanut butter sandwiches for lunch.

Later in their marriage, Gerald and Elizabeth relocated to Elmira, New York to be closer to family.

A man of deep faith, Gerald converted to Catholicism in preparation for his marriage to Elizabeth. Gerald was a devoted member of St. John's Parish in West Hurley, New York and later St. Mary's Church in Elmira. He generously gave of his time through the church's maintenance and bereavement ministries, quietly serving others with compassion and dedication. His faith was not only something he practiced on Sundays, but it was a guiding light throughout his life.

Gerald shared a beautiful and loving marriage with his beloved wife, Elizabeth. Together they created countless treasured memories while traveling and enjoying cruises, embracing every opportunity to explore new places and experiences. Yet of all the blessings in his life, nothing brought Gerald greater happiness than his family. He delighted in witnessing the growth and accomplishments of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His love, wisdom, and gentle presence will remain a lasting gift to those fortunate enough to have known him.

Gerald is lovingly survived by his son Gerald Parkes (Tina); his daughters, Perri Geiser (Mark), Terri Mulson (Kurt), and Sherri Craft (Richard) his sisters-in-law, Lorraine Gerber and Raquel Parkes; his ex-daughter-in-law, Heidi Fensken Parkes; ex son-in-law Gary Pease; his grandchildren, Brandon Pease (Vicki), Matthew Mulson (Kayla), Daniel Craft (Alyssa), Michael Craft (Heather), Allison Machnick (Robert) and Andrew Parkes (Michael Pine); his treasured great-grandchildren, Alexandra Pease, Carolina Pease, Maverick Mulson, Emma Craft, Sadie Craft, Colton Craft, Asher Craft, Cameron Machnick, Aliza Machnick, and August Machnick. He also leaves behind cherished nieces, nephews and extended family; many dear friends and neighbors especially the Castaldo and Smith families.

In addition to his parents, Gerald was predeceased by his beloved wife, Elizabeth Sara Ortlieb Parkes; his cherished grandson, Michael Gregory Mulson; and his brothers and their spouses, James Parkes

(Elizabeth, Eileen), Frank Parkes (Frances), and Charles Parkes (Ann, Karen).

Many Thanks to the care givers from CareFirst, Visiting Angels, V.A. (Chemung County Family Services) and most recently the Teresian House.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11;00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 10,2026, at St. Clement's Church, 231 Lake Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the church prior to the Mass.

Interment, with military honors, will immediately follow at 12:30 p.m. at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY12871.

Those wishing to remember Gerald can make donations in his name to: St. Peter's Health Partners, Michael "Greg" Mulson, RN, Class of 2012 Graduation Award, 310 South Manning Boulevard, Albany, NY 12208 Wounded Warrior Project support.woundedwarriorproject.org

Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Compassionate Funeral Care, Inc., 402 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866

For online condolences, visit www.compassionatefuneralcare.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.