Known to most as "Ernie," he was someone who appreciated a good nickname – and, in turn, he was often known as Cliff Clavin, Hemingway, Parkesie, Worm, Ern, Ernesto, Grandad, Dad, and D. Ernie died in Florida after a short but fierce journey with glioblastoma. He was surrounded by love, positivity, and the constant presence of his wife, Kathleen, and later his children – all holding him through his final days.

From Ontario to Nova Scotia to Florida, Hingham, and Florida again, Ernie made a lasting impression wherever he went. As a husband, he was loyal, gentle, loving, and endlessly witty – the kind of person who knew when to say something and when to say nothing at all.

Kathleen remembers their beach walks, him singing in the shower, and his love of letter writing, which helped them reconnect after 26 years. His long handwritten letters to her turned into long, thoughtful emails and rekindled a connection that will stand the test of time until they meet again.

As a father and grandfather, he was proud beyond measure. Billy Bob (George) and Bimmel (Kate) will always remember his love of music – from Neil Young to Green Day to concertos to Great Big Sea. Even the Spice Girls made it onto the playlist on those cherished Friday drives to his daughter's skating practices.

Before Google existed, they'd go to their Dad with a question, and he'd usually respond with: "Look it up in the dictionary" or "Check the encyclopedia" before eventually offering the answer himself. He instilled in them a sense of curiosity and self-reliance and then filled in the gaps with love and laughter.

As a brother, he was steady, supportive, ready with the best one-liners, and always kind. He was someone who showed up – quietly, reliably, and with an undeniable charm. He had a way with words – or, as he might have put it, he was a virtuoso of verbal expression. He will be warmly remembered most, in the places near to his heart, and shared with family and close friends – Port Stanley beach, Mackies, Shaw's Ice Cream, Pinafore Park, and "Axford's Pit."

Ernie loved books, animals, lively conversation, and a cold beer. He was a friend to all, a compassionate soul, and someone who made people feel both seen and safe. Every time we taste black licorice, eat dark chocolate, snack on pistachios, or watch a New York Yankees or Boston Bruins game, we'll be thinking of him.

In lieu of flowers or donations, we have suggested a few ways you can honour Ernie:

• Enjoy a nice, long bath
• Pet a dog
• Attend a trivia night
• Read a good book
• Take a yoga or Tai Chi class
• Sip an IPA
• Watch Empire of the Sun
• Drink Starbucks (and leave a tip)
• Be present. Say what you mean. Laugh when you can.

He was truly a unique and beautiful person – we are confident, wherever he is, he's whistling or playing his harmonica.

https://everloved.com/life-of/george-parkes/obituary/