MANLY — Harold A. Parker, 94, of Manly, passed away Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Deery Suites at Western Home Communities in Cedar Falls, leaving behind a legacy of service to Iowa’s farming communities, a deep commitment to family and a lifetime of friendships built along the way.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, October 17, at 10:30 a.m. at Bethel United Methodist Church, 503 S. East Street in Manly, with the Rev. Cory Allard officiating. A time of fellowship will follow at the church, with burial expected at approximately 3 p.m. at Highland Township Cemetery near Churdan.
Visitation will take place Friday, October 16, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bride Colonial Chapel, 110 E. Spring Street in Manly. Additional visitation will be held Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the church.
Born December 27, 1931, to Lloyd and Reva (Johnston) Parker, Harold grew up with agriculture woven into nearly every part of his life. His childhood began on the family farm near Scranton before the family relocated to another farm near Churdan. He attended country school, graduated from Churdan High School in 1949 and worked alongside his father, brothers and uncle in the fields.
His farming life was interrupted when he was drafted into the United States Army. Harold trained at Fort Riley, Kansas, and served in Europe as a personnel office clerk before receiving an honorable discharge.
Returning to Iowa, Harold went to work at the grain elevator in Churdan. Although farming remained close to his heart, he discovered a rewarding career in the agricultural cooperative industry, eventually advancing into management positions that would take him to several Iowa communities.
On November 4, 1956, Harold married Ruth “Elaine” Hoskins, beginning a partnership that would span more than six decades. Together, they raised three children, Jolene, Lorrie and Jeff, and built a life grounded in family, faith and hard work. The couple celebrated 60 years of marriage before Elaine’s death on March 16, 2017.
Harold managed cooperatives in Laurel, Dysart and eventually Manly, where he spent the remainder of his working career. In Manly, he and Elaine established their family home, surrounding it with gardens and fruit trees that reflected their shared affection for country living.
His contributions reached well beyond his professional responsibilities. Harold belonged to Lions Clubs in Laurel, Dysart and Manly, participated in the American Legion and was a longtime Mason. He supported Elaine’s Eastern Star activities, and the couple developed lasting friendships through their Lucky Charms social group.
Harold and Elaine also shared a love of square dancing, frequently appearing on the dance floor wearing outfits Elaine had made herself. His professional accomplishments in the cooperative industry brought recognition from agricultural companies and opportunities for travel. Together, the couple explored Hawaii, Europe, Brazil and other destinations.
Their church community remained important throughout their lives, including their involvement at Bethel United Methodist Church in Manly.
Despite his professional achievements and community involvement, Harold found his greatest satisfaction in being a husband, father and grandfather. He delighted in sharing memories of farm life with his children and passing along the lessons he had learned while growing up in rural Iowa.
Family gatherings, holiday celebrations and fishing trips were cherished traditions. Harold and Elaine traveled extensively to remain close to their loved ones, including trips to follow their son Jeff’s military service overseas and visits across the country to see their grandchildren and their families.
Harold also had a gift for making people laugh. Whether sharing an old farming tale, recalling an adventure or offering a perfectly timed joke, he brought humor and warmth to the people around him.
He is survived by his daughter, Jolene (Ron) Davis of Jasper, Georgia; son, Jeff (Cathlin) Parker of Colorado Springs, Colorado; son-in-law, Dave Curry of Le Mars; grandchildren Daniel (Sarah Massella) Schrader, Stefanie (Chris) Steies, Shannon (Jim) Sherwood, J.J. Parker, Adam Curry, Ross Curry, Ryan Davis and Shane (Kami) Davis; eight great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; brothers Paul Parker and Glenn Parker; sisters Lois Stogsdill and Ruth Nuegent; and numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Elaine; daughter, Lorrie Curry; parents, Lloyd and Reva Parker; brothers Wayne Parker and Lloyd Parker Jr.; and sister Ruby Fister.
Family and friends may share memories, offer condolences and find additional service information through Bride Colonial Chapel’s online tribute to Harold Allen Parker.
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