St. Michael's Catholic Church
379 Division St., Cobourg
Royal Canadian Legion Branch 133
135B Orr Street, Cobourg
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It is with sad hearts yet uplifted souls we announce the swift and peaceful passing of Daniel Lewis Parsons, Sunday evening, December 1, 2024 in his 95th year, as music gently serenaded him to Heaven to be reunited with his many loved ones. Daniel Lewis Parsons, born January 29, 1930 in Cobourg to Albert Daniel Parsons and Mary Ann Parsons (Kewin). Husband of 53 years of his beloved late wife Doris Parsons (Sleeman). Father of Michael Parsons (Carol), Denise Burnham (Allan) and Patricia Calder (Tim). Cherished grandfather of Michelle, Alison, Laura, Daniel, Cameron, Kendra, Kandis and Kayne and great- grandfather to Evan, Carter, Caleb, Kennedy, Ethan, Logan, Chloe, Mason, Xavier, Izaiah, Myla, Beau and Rowan. Brother of Bernice Basinger (John), the late Shirley Sich (Nick) and the late Robert Parsons. Brother-in-law to the Sleeman family, the late Audrey and Roy Reid, the late Marion and Odd Selvig, Betty Snowdy (Bill), Mary Turpin (the late Ralph), Gord and Mary Sleeman and uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Danny lived his entire life in Cobourg with the exception of the last two years. He attended St. Michael’s school as a child and like many people of his generation went to work very early in life to help support his family during the difficult post-depression war years. Danny worked hard his entire life and faced his many challenges with the same enthusiasm, optimism, gregarious nature, contagious humour, wickedly handsome smile and twinkling blue eyes which carried him through to his final journey.
Danny was given the greatest natural gift of music. As a child prodigy, the Nuns who taught piano lessons at St. Joseph’s Convent quickly threw up their hands and told Danny’s parents to save their money, stating “there was nothing left to teach this child, he has been kissed by God”. Danny made good for many decades generously sharing this musical gift having entertained literally thousands of people in numerous bands and orchestras. Whether it be a dazzling New Years Eve party in a ballroom welcoming in the hope of new beginnings, a warm summer night down at the Cobourg old Pavillion dance hall for young lovers to take a spin on the floor or a quiet tinkling of the ivories beside an ill patient’s hospital room, Danny was always willing to share his time and abilities to create a moment of joy and memories for others. Danny had the privilege of playing with countless talented musicians over the years, who have mostly gone before him, but somewhere as we speak there is a wicked jam session happening.
Doris and Danny lived happily on Hibernia Street their entire marriage raising their family. Summer nights were enjoyed on the veranda sharing the news of the day with neighbours and friends alike, many evenings Danny’s friends would stroll past the house trying to entice him in joining them at the Legion for “just one quick one” however, smart thinking on Danny’s part usually prevailed as he would smile and say, no thanks. Danny was gratefully aware of the true love and support his devoted wife Doris had given so generously over the years so he could be available for the enjoyment of others. When Danny and Doris could get away, they enjoyed many years out at Rice Lake at their trailer. Danny was an avid fisherman; he loved his boat and taking Doris and the grandchildren out for boat rides. On calm summer nights you could hear Danny whistling softly across the waters as he would patiently be trolling to catch the big one. Suffice to say, Daniel Lewis Parsons was as unique a person as God has ever created. Danny will be missed by many for his intelligence, endless sense of humour, opinions, generosity and kindness, his wicked smile, his gift of music and mostly for his devotion as a husband, brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. Danny will be missed by many friends in the St. Michael’s Church community, at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 133 and the numerous new friends he made while living at the Legion Village, including Marlene Towns with notable gratitude to fellow musician and bandmate Jens Richter who always brought his guitar to visits with Danny at Extendicare so they could share a moment of music.
Heartfelt thanks are also extended to the entire staff at Port Hope Extendicare, Dr. Philip Stratford and especially to the staff of Augusta House for the exemplary continuous care, concern, kindness, dignity and devotion you all so effortlessly showered Danny with over the last two years. The Parsons family will always be indebted to you for creating such a loving environment, giving Danny the best quality of life in his latter years that could have been hoped for.
A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Michael’s Catholic Church Cobourg on Friday December 13th, 2024 at 10 am., followed by a reception at the Cobourg Legion. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums, the Concert Band of Cobourg or St. Michael’s Church in Cobourg.
As in Danny’s usual style, he ended every performance with this Vera Lynn song, we hope these words sooth your aching heart:
“Let’s say goodbye with a smile, dear just for awhile cause…We’ll meet again, don’t know where, don’t know when, but we’ll meet again some sunny day”.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums
An absolute gem. A beauty and a love of life
We're so sorry to hear of Dan's passing. Ken shared many fishing & hunting outings with Dan and Mike back in the day. Our thoughts are with Dan's family at this time. Ken & Jo Anne(Goody) Davison
Our deepest condolences to Danny's family and friends.
My sincere condolences to the Parsons family, For many years Danny played the piano and my late husband Jim played the drums on Friday nights at Cobourg Legion
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Concert Band of Cobourg
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Concert Band of Cobourg
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Cobourg Legion Pipes and Drums
Michael, Denise, Patty and families, Sending sincere condolences your way, I know your hearts are full of beautiful memories, thinking of you all 🌸 🎹
Hello everyone...Our deepest condolences to your family...I will always have fond memories of uncle Dan his music and big personality to be around with the Sleeman clan...always laughing and making others laugh along with him!!! He will be sorrily missed...again sorry for your loss...Gary and Cheryl Turpin...I STILL HAVE HIS ROWBOAT!!!
It was a joy to be Danny's neighbour and friend. We were entertained with stories and laughter on his front porch and in the duck blind. From the first time we met (27 years ago) until the last time we spoke, we always walked away better for it. To his family, that was his treasure, our condolences and prayers. Heaven will be livelier now!
We are saddened to hear of Daniel's passing. He was a wonderful man and we are grateful for his 8 years of volunteerism with the Northumberland Hills Hospital Auxiliary from 1999-2007. On behalf of the NHH staff, volunteer team and NHH Auxiliary board we send our condolences to Daniel's loved ones.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Concert Band of Cobourg
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Canadian Cancer Society
I had the privilege to have time with Danny over the years, many highlights after the days of growing a family, tannery, lcbo and concert halls. Memorable times at a glance, picking him up at 4:30 in the morning to go fishing out to Rice Lake, Tim finding ways to get under his skin, me walking into Legion village hearing the piano playing knowing every woman there was in Awe , you a couple years back needing my help in the morning say we’ll have a beer, thinking you were joking you held true to your promise and I never had a coors light hit me like that one at 8:30 in the morning , Danny was a friend and a true original, Lucky to have known him.
My deepest condolences to Danny's family. He was a wonderful musician and always so kind to our family. I loved how he would lift the spirits of the Legion residents when he played. RIP .
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Concert Band of Cobourg
Michael, Denise, Patty and families...we are so incredibly sorry for your loss. Uncle Danny was truly a soul that loved life. He filled a room with his laughter, his hysterical one liners and of course his music. At family gatherings, I remember him playing the piano in grandma and grandpa Sleeman's "piano room" and in no time... he had a large crowd surrounding him. We are sending lots of prayers your way and lots of love.
Condolences to Danny's Family: Having known Danny for many years and lots of interesting visits he will be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
So Sorry to hear about your father's passing Denise - I remembered all those trips around Cobourg in my car with Friends and taking you home - early. Mike -- Glen sends his condolences - he knows you from the Port Hope Pigeon Club.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Concert Band of Cobourg
Sorry to hear about you Dad passing away. He was such a special person and he sure will be missed. Keep your memories close to you. What a special tribute for him. Always had time to chat. Our deepest sympathy.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Concert Band of Cobourg
It's always sad to lose a loved one and especially so when it's one of your family as Danny was, but thankfully he left behind endless happy memories that will keep us smiling for years to come, and honestly if I had the money I would make a movie about Danny Parsons life - It would be hilarious and various so tender as well. Lots of love to Patty, Denise, Michael and family . Aunt Betty(Sleeman) Snowdy.
Our deepest condolences to the family. Danny was a great guy. He and his band played at our wedding. May your memories help you through the coming days. Jane and Bill
Condolences to Danny's Family, Got to know Danny from his time living at Legion Village. I had the pleasure of serving him in the dining room. We would always make a point of talking with one another in dining room. He would always ask if I've been to casino lately, tell me interesting stories, tell jokes or very funny limerick's. Always brightened up the work day. His whistling tunes and music on keyboard were great. He will be missed by many
Patty, Mike , Denise & family. Knowing Danny for a majority of my life was a blessing. Working at Legion Village with Danny there was a blessing. We had a great relationship and he allowed me to share pictures and videos with my nieces & nephew ( his grandchildren). I remember the days of the trailer and always telling Dad, we need to see what Danny caught today, his boat is coming in. RIP to a true man. Love you Danny, I will never forget you Penny Smale. (Stevenson)
So many memories Laughter and listening to Danny play The family reunions (Harris) Where made all the more fun because he was there I would talk to him many times when leaving working at West Highschool My condolences to all of you! Pam Spear
We were very sad to hear of the passing of Danny… He was a wonderful man and a wonderful friend and colleague of ours. We shared many stories, laughs and friendship over the years, and we know that he is at peace reunited with his loved ones.
Condolances to the the Family Fond memories of Danny! He was such a kind person. He was great friends with my Dad Val. Rest in Peace Danny ?
I am so sorry for your loss. May you find peace and comfort in the days to come.
Old memories never die. I’ve know Danny most of my life as a small child on Albert Street our backyards were separated by a small fence. I grew up with him always being right there in the yard when I was outside. I grew up with his children & always enjoyed talking with Danny & Doris when we were outside. You are now with the love of your life Danny,your beloved Doris. May you Rest In Peace my old friend. I’m so very sorry for your loss Mike,Denise & Patty. Susan Delaney & Ross Dudley.
I’m so sorry to hear of Danny’s death. I’ve known him all my life and I can’t imagine Cobourg without him. He was always ready for a chat and remembering Cobourg stories. The piano lid will be closed for now Danny. Now you will be reunited with your dear Doris and your family members. Rest in peace!
Danny was such a huge presence in the lives of everyone he touched and his humour, generosity of spirit, and joie de vivre will be sorely missed. Don and I are especially grateful for the 13 year loving supportive partnership he shared with my sister Marlene Towns which helped both of them weather the terrible loss of their spouses. We so enjoyed their visit to us in Calgary and were rewarded by Danny's enthusiastic appreciation of Banff and the mountains. Although we haven't met Danny's family we feel as though we know them and we are sending our sincerest condolences for the huge gaping hole his passing has left in your hearts. We hope that memories of your happier days will sustain all of you in your sad loss.
So sorry for the loss of your beloved Dad and grandfather. We didn't visit often but when we got to visit as kids it was always special. I heard Danny play mostly at the arena and was always glad to brag that I knew him. Your obituary was so spot on and did him justice. hugs to you all...Wendy Archer(Tomaz)
So very sorry for your loss . My Condolence to the family.
Michael, Denise and Patty, what a lovely, thoughtful tribute to your Dad. Your Mother would be proud of you. I have a million wonderful memories of your Mom and Dad in my head. My heart is with you at this difficult time. Love, Aunt Mary
We are so sorry to hear that your dad has passed. Bud will always be in our memory as the story teller, he and John arguing over hockey teams and his piano playing at New Year’s. Our sincerest condolences to all the Parsons families at this difficult time. Shirley, Amy, Kim and families.
A Memorial Donation has been made to the following charity:
Canadian Cancer Society
Sorry to hear about Dan. He was a great person, great smile. I remember him visiting our house on a few occasions and he always played us several tunes on our piano. Hold your memories close.
A true character in life I can only imagine in heaven R.I.P. Danny you and your wit will be missed .
I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to my mother, Aunt Denise, and Uncle Mike on the profound loss of their beloved father. I also want to express my sorrow to my extended family for the loss of an incredible grandfather and to the Cobourg community for the loss of a man who meant so much to so many lives he touched. It pains me deeply not to be home with you during this period of mourning, especially to comfort my mother as she navigates her grief. Please know that, although I may be far away, my spirit is with you as you come together to celebrate the extraordinary life of Grandpa Dan. I have so many cherished memories from my childhood that revolve around the time spent with him and Grandma at the trailer by the lake. I fondly remember those late summer evenings on the veranda after the fireworks. I can still picture myself sitting on the basement stairs, enthralled as Grandpa worked in his workshop, always creating something special. Those Christmas celebrations, filled with the warmth of piano music and Grandpa Dan singing, are memories I will treasure forever. We were incredibly fortunate to have Grandpa Dan in our lives. His spirit, incredible sense of humor, and the love he shared will continue to live on in all of us. I am sending all my love to my family during this difficult time.
What a beautiful tribute to your Dad. Uncle Danny always had a smile on his face for as long as I can remember. He play the piano at many of our Sleeman family weddings and gatherings. It amazed me at how he never needed sheet music to play, he just had that much talent. Our condolences to you all Mike, Denise and Patty and your families. May he rest in peace with Aunt Doris.
I feel so fortunate to have known Uncle Danny. He was truly one of a kind—someone who brought joy and laughter to everyone around him. His passion for life, his music, and the love he shared with his family was immeasurable. Denise, please know our love is with you and the entire family during this time of remembrance. We hope you all find comfort in the countless happy memories and the love he left behind. Rhianna and Brian
Dear Denise &Al .Sorry to hear of ur dads passing, I remember sitting on their veranda , whistling &always for playing his beloved piano! He really enjoyed his music & had a long joyful life! Ur family just have many fun memories of Danny! RIP. Sympathy to all the family! Beautiful obituary!
Sending my love and deepest sympathy to the family. I felt very lucky to meet Danny in his later years.Kayne and I would always have great visits with him and he kept his great sensor of humor and wit to the very end. He will be greatly missed by all as Cobourg has lost such a big personality and a respectable man.
It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to my Uncle Bud. I will always remember him at my Mum and Dad's house on New Years Eve playing the Piano to bring in the New Year. All our sympathy to Denise , Mike, Patty and families. All our Love
Our heartfelt condolences to Mike, Denise, Patty and family. Your Father was a wonderful gentleman, always greeted everyone with a smile. He will be missed. Such wonderful memories for you to hold in your hearts. Lynn and Doug Holland
I spent my early years living at the Cobourg Armory. We always knew when Mr Parsons was finished work, as he could be heard whistling half way up Spring Street. Denise, Mike and Patty, please accept our condolences on the passing of your dad.
A beautiful tribute to your grandfather Michelle. I am so sorry to hear of his passing, I had the pleasure at meeting Daniel at your wedding and events for my God-sons Evan and Caleb. He loved you dearly and it showed. I know you loved to spend time with him and I love hearing your stories as I lost my grandparents at a younger age. My sincere condolences to You my friend as well as Tom, Evan, Caleb and Carter. Please also send my love and condolences to Your Dad and Mom as well as Aunt Patty and your cousins!! Hold his memory close to your heart and know that he is at Peace!!
My deepest condolences Denise, Patty, Mike and families.
I am saddened to read this, but as I think of what to write for condolences I am flooded with memories. Danny was a dear friend of my late husband Val Baldini. He was a customer of Vals Live Bait from the time it opened, 1967, till 2019 when the business closed. I was also blessed to know Danny through his visits to the hospital to entertain patients on the third floor. I had the honor of being a part of the Palliative care team that cared for his wife. I also knew him through St Michaels Church and became friends with his daughter when she worked at the hospital and later the Dr's office. As I think about all these memories of Danny I find myself smiling. I hope your memories of him will also bring you smiles
Dearest Patty, Denise, Mike and families. I was shocked, but happy for Danny. That was very well put in the obit. It is kind of uplifting. He is with his beloved wife once more. Dan had a sense of humour that will be very hard to match. Big hugs to you, Patty. I am sure there is a dance party going on, somewhere.
With my deepest sympathy to Mr. Parson's family. I knew him from seeing him at the Cobourg LCBO over the years, where he always had a smile and a cheery greeting. I then made his acquaintance once again when he moved into Extendicare in Port Hope, where my Mom lived for several years. Again, he always had a twinkly smile and a great hello when I'd see him in the halls. What a lovely tribute you've written for a really remarkable man. May he rest in peace. Brenda (Waller) Quinn
Denise, Patty and Mike "Uncle Bud was the Best there ever was" he will ever hold a place in our hearts. Ric and Barb.
Our sincere condolences Mike, Denise, Patty, Bernice and families. Your dad, father in law, brother and grandfather was indeed a very special and wonderful man. Danny will be missed by all who had the pleasure to know and hear him play. I know he is playing now with the angels. May God envelope you all in his loving arms. May God give you comfort and peace. May his soul rest in peace Amen. Sincerely Rob and Cyndy Harper
Ric and I are so sorry for your loss sending condolences and big hugs to all ?. RIP.
To the Parson Family...Danny never passed one on the street without sharing that wonderful smile and a few words. Such a talented man that shared his talent for so many years; I think everyone in Cobourg has enjoyed his tinkling the keys. May he rest in peace. Sincerely...Linda Cable Marr
My deepest condolences to Mike, Carol, Pattie and Tim for your loss. Danny played my piano for us at our summer barbecue. He was a funny, bright and honorable man. We will all miss him. He is certainly playing with the best in heaven.
To Patty and family It saddens me deeply to hear of your great loss of such a special man and dear father. I am so sorry I can't be with you during this sad and difficult time. Losing a loved one is never easy and I can only imagine the pain you are experiencing right now. I will always remember your dad making me laugh with his great sense of humour and always making me feel welcomed. Sending you love and support. May you find moments of peace and stillness admist the pain of your great loss. Treasure the many good memories he left behind. My heartfelt condolences goes out to you and your family
Sending sincere sympathy to all of the family. May all your wonderful memories help during this difficult time.
So very sorry to hear about your father and grandfather. He was indeed a lovely man always spoke when he saw you and I remember him and your mom sitting on the front porch welcoming everybody that walked by Keep your memories with you and he will always be with you. Jane (Holland) Mullins
Heartfelt condolences to Danny's family and friends. Danny was the sweetest man. We shared many conversations with laughter and mutual teasing over the years that I served as his barber. May all the wonderful memories you share guide you through your time of loss. RIP Danny
My condolences to the Parsons family. I worked with Danny from 1984-1990 at the Cobourg LCBO. Such a gentleman and he had a great sense of humour! He was great to talk to and we always ended with a good laugh. RIP Danny, I’ll always remember you. You were one in a million! Virginia
Deepest condolences to Mike, Patty and Denise. Danny's laughter and wit will be sorely missed.
We extend our deepest condolences to family, friends of Danny's. Also to his special friend, Marlene. We met Danny here at Legion Village and enjoyed his stories of the history of Cobourg and of course his music. He sure knew how to tinkle those ivories. He will be missed by everyone. RIP Danny!
Sending my sincere condolences to Mike and Carol Parsons and the Parson/Sleeman family on the passing of Danny.He was a very funny man and will be missed by many.R.I.P Danny.
Sending my sincere condolences to Mike and Carol Parsons and the Parson/Sleeman family on the passing of Danny.He was a very funny man and will be missed by many.R.I.P Danny.
What a beautiful tribute to an amazing man … we remember him fondly from our time at St Michael’s church .. sitting near the back .. just as we did.. entertaining our children with a wink and a story .. our sympathies to all of you in your loss Dalton and Heather McDonald
Denise and Parson family I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. I had many many laugh with Danny. He worked a few years with me at the LCBO. What a jokester. my sincere condolences to you all.??? Jeanie Haig
My condolences to all the family and close friends
Sincere condolences Denise and the Parsons family. Your father sounds like a wonderful guy. Hugs.