Ricky Parkhurst

Ricky Eugene Parkhurst, 51, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, August 19, 2011. Rick was born on January 23, 1960 in Topeka, the son of Arthur R. and Ellen Marie (Putnam) Parkhurst. Rick was a lifelong resident of Topeka, having graduated from Topeka High School. After graduation, Rick labored in various jobs doing yard work, painting, roofing, delivering phone books, and as a mechanic until he became ill with complications from diabetes. Rick was a man who loved and cared for his family, and was loving, ambitious, strong, and determined. Rick did not let his illness keep him from enjoying life, as he showed in various ways. For example, Rick would continuously make his way around town in his motorized wheelchair; he enjoyed singing and playing the guitar; and had plans to go to school and study more about mechanics or electronics. Rick was a member of East Side Baptist Church.

Rick is survived by two sisters, Kathryn Diana (Parkhurst) Jones and her husband, Ronald; Sarah Laurene (Parkhurst) Tabares, and her husband, Isallas; 3 nephews, Antonio, Andrew, and Chris; 1 niece, Maria; and 2 great nieces, Kylee and Nyla. Rick was preceded in death by his parents, and by a brother, Daryl Wayne Parkhurst.

Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 31, at Mount Hope Cemetery. The family will receive friends at East Side Baptist Church on Tuesday, August 30, from 6:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to East Side Baptist Church, 4425 SE 29th St., Topeka KS 66605.