Obituary: Thomas Parks, 77, Ludington.

Thomas Parks

Obituary: Thomas Parks, 77, Ludington.

Thomas E. Parks, 77, of Ludington passed away Monday, March 8, 2021. He was born July 22, 1943 in Benton Harbor to James and Mary (Clauss) Parks. At the age of 17 Tom enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served during the Vietnam War where he was missing in action for six months. He also served on the U. S.S. New Port News during the Cuban Missile Crisis. After returning home to Benton Harbor, Tom worked for several years as a machinist at the Benton Harbor Foundry.

Tom was a member of the American Legion Post 76 in Ludington. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, and he was very handy. He loved fixing cars.

Tom is survived by his significant other of 17 years, Julie Horowski; his son, Michael Shane Parks; his grandsons, Tommy and Jacob Parks; his siblings, Richard Parks, Mary Ann Schmaltz, Duane Higginbothan, and Melissa Welch; and good friends, Dave and Georgene Horowski.

Besides his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his brother, Everett Parks.

According to his wishes, cremation has taken place and a private service with military honors will be held later this year.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.oakgroveludington.com.