Doris R.L. Parks

Doris Rose (nee Larner) Parks of East Lansing, died peacefully in her home on December 10, 2011 at age 93. She was born April 3, 1918 in Lansing, Mich., the daughter of Mortimer Franklin Larner and Grace (Nichols) Larner.

Doris was a proud graduate of Lansing Central (now Sexton) High School and of Michigan State College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1940.

After graduation Doris worked as a dietitian. In 1942 she married Harry Bartels Parks, also a Michigan State graduate, becoming a “war bride” while he served in World War II as an officer in the U.S. Navy.

Doris gave 20 years of valuable service to the Michigan State University Library. As a student she had previously worked there. In 1960 she returned as a bibliographic technician in the Acquisitions Section of the Resources Department. Her work included complex searches in many languages that facilitated the addition of numerous publications to the library’s vast collections.

Doris had a love of learning that she shared with others. Her generosity made it financially possible for many people to receive an education.

Doris was a lifelong member and benefactor of Central United Methodist Church in Lansing. She had been active in its women’s groups, educational studies, and she was a supporter of the music program and its Jaekel pipe organ fund.

Doris was predeceased by her brother, Maurice Lamer; her husband of 46 years, Harry Bartels Parks; and her grandson, Christopher Dwayne Fry. She is survived by her two children: son, Carl Larner Parks of Bradenton, Florida and daughter and son-in-law, Rosanne and Walt Fry of Mason; two grandchildren, Matthew and his wife Julie Fry, Kathleen and her husband Matthew Krysiak; and five great-grandchildren, Adrianna, Michael, and Zackary Krysiak, and Evelyn and Nora Rose Fry. She is also survived by her caregiver Regina LaHaie and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service for Doris will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 14, 2012, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel, 325 W. Washtenaw St., Lansing, Michigan, with the Rev. Bill Pinches, of First Presbyterian Church of Mason, officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

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