Jerry Parks, 87, of Monroe, Michigan passed away unexpectedly at his home Friday, November 4, 2011.

Born June 20, 1924 in Calvin, Oklahoma, he was the son of Charlie and Maude (Stephens) Parks. In 1957 he married the former Pauline Webb in Colorado. Sadly, she preceded him in death in 2008.

Jerry proudly served in the United States Navy for ten years during both World War II and the Korean War. He was the recipient of several Military Medals including the World War II Victory Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal, National Defense Medal and three Bronze Stars. Jerry served on the USS Pocomoke and the USS Edisto, an early Artic icebreaker in 1949.

He worked as a boiler maker for about 40 years. After his retirement some 25 years ago, Jerry became known as "The Produce Guy", selling his fresh fruits and vegetables all around Monroe, most recently at his home on Maple Blvd.

He was preceded in death by six brothers and one sister.

Survivors include three daughters: Levita Parks of Monroe, Michigan and Francis J. (Charles) Smith and Rose (Roy) Roberts, all of Oklahoma; one son, Paul Ivey of Oklahoma; twelve grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren and thirteen great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by adopted family: Ruth, Kendra and Emmy Jo Baumgartner of Monroe.

Funeral services will be Saturday, November 12, 2011, 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Allen, Oklahoma, with visitation beginning at noon prior to the service. Rev. Chad Kaminski is the officiating minister. Jerry will be laid to rest in the Calvin Cemetery, Calvin, Oklahoma.