Donald J. Parker Obituary

Donald John Parker was born on 12/31/1943 in East Rutherford, NJ in his family home, which previously stood where the Meadowlands Arena now stands. Don passed away at his home in Barnegat, NJ on 12/20/2023, at 79 years old. Don's passion for music led him to meeting his loving wife of 49 years, Eileen, while playing at the Misty Lounge in Wallington and they got married in 1974 in Carlstadt, NJ. Music was a huge part of his life, he played drums and guitar since he was a young boy. Don was lead singer and played in many bands throughout his lifetime, from an oldies band, "The Sounds of Time," in the 70's to country bands, "Bill Patten Band" and "Dixie Duo," throughout the 80's and 90's. Don even recorded a single while in Nashville several years back, "The Jersey Cowboy.". He spent many years taking his kids camping, teaching his grandchildren how to garbage pick "the good stuff," and even taught his kids how to roof a house.

Don is predeceased by his parents Harold and Jennie Parker, his brothers Hal and Eddie, his sister Jennie, his grandson Allen Auten, and his son-in-law Robert Angeli. He is survived by his wife, Eileen (Gahwyler) Parker; his children, Lisa Golightly (Jack), Donna-Lynn Myers, Lisa Fischer, Donna Pollina, James Pollina (Dorothy), Danielle Angeli and Philip Pollina (Michelle); grandchildren, Heather Hill, Natalie Angeli, Brittany Marks (Thomas), Michael Flynn, Christoper Pollina, Nicole Parker, Ashley Eslinger, Ryan Pollina, Devin Pollina, Krystal James (William), Samantha Levy, Samantha Pollina, Brandon Levy, Alissa LeVance, John LeVance, Ernie Myers, Destiny Myers, Robert Angeli, Rebecca Angeli, Justin Pollina, and Carleigh Pollina; great-grandchildren, Owen Godbout, Liam Pierson, Jayden Pollina, Wyatt Kenny, Savanna Roeder, Landon Marks, Chase Marks, Abigail Myers, Bryson Myers, Matthew James, Parker LeVance, and Cedar Lyons.

Don was loved by his wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He will truly be missed by many. Don would want stories about his life and the impact he has made on others shared. We, his family, are inviting anyone to share memories of Don at his memorial service following the eulogy readings.

Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, December 30, 2023 from 2 to 5 PM at Barnegat Funeral Home, 841 West Bay Ave., Barnegat, NJ. (http://www.barnegatfh.com).