Thursday, September 16, 2021 at 12:00 a.m.
Parkinson, Arthur Craig
December 8, 1944 - Vancouver, BC
ARTHUR "CRAIG" PARKINSON
December 8, 1944 - Vancouver, BC
September 11, 2021 - Cardston, AB
It is with profound sadness that Dianne announces the passing of her beloved husband and dearest friend, Craig, who passed away peacefully with her at his side on September 11.
Craig, the son of Margaret and Art Parkinson, was raised in West Vancouver, BC. He was very involved in the YMCA during his high school years and subsequently became the Program Director of the Vancouver "Y". In January, 1969 he fulfilled his childhood ambition and became a proud member of the R.C.M.P. with whom he served in various locations for 9 years. He joined the Lethbridge Police Service in April, 1978, serving until his retirement in 2004. In addition to serving on the boards of the Lethbridge chapter of the Kidney Foundation, Lethbridge Child Services, Lethbridge Habitat for Humanity, and the Waterton National History Association, Craig volunteered many hours to STARS, who saved his life in 1998.
On December 6, 1985 Craig met Dianne Deak and they married on that date the following year. During the 36 years they had together they experienced many wonderful adventures. They loved the time they spent at their cabin in Waterton and Craig especially enjoyed his boat which was his pride and joy. They travelled extensively but his most memorable trip was to Regina to attend the 50 year reunion of R.C.M.P. 20 Troop. His love of life and appreciation of people touched the lives of those who knew him.
In addition to his cherished wife, Dianne, Craig is survived by his daughter Angela (Derek) Talbot & their children Claire and Sarah; daughter Colleen (Darryl) Gensorek & their children Matthew and Nathan; and special niece Erin (Anthony) Tupper.
He was predeceased by his parents, Margaret and Art; his birth father, Wilfred Miron and his wife, Betty; and Dianne's siblings, Terry and Janice Deak.
Craig was very appreciative of the care, concern, and assistance he and Dianne received over the years and wanted to acknowledge and thank the following: Drs. Lloyd Clarke, Gordon Hunt, Debra Issaac, Lee Oviatt, and David Steed; Stephen Little of Remedy's RX in Coleman; the entire staff of the Cardston Hospital; and our amazing family of Waterton friends, without whom we could never have managed. Our eternal gratitude goes out to all of you.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations in Craig's memory to his favorite charity, Children's Wish Foundation of AB and NWT, 270-2323-32 Ave. NE, Calgary AB, T2E 6Z3 would be appreciated. A celebration of life will be held in Waterton next summer.
Guestbook (19)
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I am so sorry Ange and Colleen for the passing of your father. Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. Tons of hugs and love, always ?
Our condolences to Colleen and Angela and their families on the loss of their father and grandfather.
To know Craig was to love him. He was such a special, caring man, who will be missed by so many people , especially by you, Dianne. Take good care at this sad time. Love you ?. HUGS !!!
Diane, We extend our deepest sympathies to you & your family at this time of loss. Con & Maria Schultz Crystal Clean Ltd.
Dianne and family - I offer my condolences to you and your family. Craig always had a smile and a little joke for us at the courthouse and was kind even during the hectic days. He left us many stories and memories to share about our courthouse life and personal life, especially Waterton. Please take care Dianne, with sympathy and hugs. Gayle Foxall
Dianne my deepest condolences on Craig's passing. I'll always remember the laughs and conversations we had when he came in for his dental appointments. He was always full of life.
Many happy memories of my time in the YMCA with Craig and the Kahaga Dancers. I remember my first day in grade 9 and Craig was sitting behind me. Craig always had a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous knowing smile. Rest In Peace Craig. You will be missed by many. Dianne please know we are thinking of you. How lucky was Craig to have found such a wonderful person to be his partner and angel.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Diane !
Our most sincere condolences and wishes that your many wonderful memories will help you travel this sad path. We will forever remember our fun times together, our long chats and our shared beverages. We'll truly miss Craig but hold him in our hearts.
Sending love & hugs to Angela & family & Colleen, Darryl, Matt and Nathan who will miss their dad & grampa so much
Dianne our deepest sympathy to you at this difficult time. May your cherished memories give you peace. Gloria & Gary
It has been a great pleasure to have you in our lives
Diane, we were so very sorry to hear about Craig's passing (we received the news from the LRPA Retired Members). Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family at this time. Ian and Wendie
So sorry to hear of Craig's passing. He lived a good life and was very helpful to a lot of people. He will be missed. Sincerely, Hazel Ober
Diane and Family - my Deepest Condolences on Craig's passing. It was an Honour to count Craig as a co-worker and Friend both during his years at the Court House and beyond. He got things done, which made everyones job easier, and did so with an ability to bring a smile to all of us. His Love of Family and of " all things Waterton" was part of his makeup . Despite a number of physical challenges over the years I can't recall an encounter anywhere where Craig did not have a big grin on his face . Memories can be a weak substitute at times like this Diane but Craig lives on in the hearts of Family and Friends. Take care....
My heart goes out to you, Ang & Colleen, on the passing of your dear father. Thinking of you at this difficult time. Mary
Dianne, I am so sorry to hear of Craig's passing. Sincere condolences to you and your family.
"Parky" and I began our careers at the L.P.S. at the every same time. He was my friend, he was my buddy, he was, and still is, my "brother". From the very first time that we met, there was nothing about Parky that I did not love. I will miss him always and forever. My heartfelt sympathy and condolences to Dianne and to the family.
Sorry for you loss Angela, Colleen families and Diane. RIP. Craig until we all meet again.