Ken Parks, age 101, passed away peacefully on January 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on September 17, 1924, Ken was a lifelong resident of the St. Louis area, where he built a life centered on faith, family, community, and service.
A witness to more than a century of history, Ken carried with him a rare perspective and wisdom that he shared generously. In 1943, at just 19 years old, he volunteered to serve his country during World War II, proudly joining the United States Army and achieving the rank of Sergeant. From 1943 to 1946, he served with courage and humility during one of history’s most defining chapters. His military service remained a lasting point of pride throughout his life.
After returning home, Ken continued his service to the nation through a distinguished 41‑year career with the Department of Defense, where he was admired for his dedication, integrity, and strong work ethic.
Ken’s life was marked by faith, leadership, and devotion to others. A committed Christian, he served faithfully as both a Deacon and Elder at Berkeley Presbyterian Church and became a long‑time member of South County Baptist Church, where he found fellowship and purpose. A man of deep and steady faith, he especially loved the words and message of the hymn “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus,” which he sang often and took to heart.
He also held close one of his favorite passages of Scripture: Galatians 5:22–23 (KJV)
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
Ken embodied these qualities daily—in his family life, his work, his service, and his friendships.
A world traveler, Ken delighted in exploring new places. He was a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, cheering faithfully through generations of players and seasons. Known as a master puzzler, he completed countless jigsaw puzzles with patience and talent. Around the card table, he was known as a pinochle shark, respected for his sharp play and good humor.
He also gave decades of service to organizations strengthening youth and community:
– 15 years with the Kiwanis Club, serving as President of a St. Louis chapter
– 25 years with the Christian Endeavor Society, also serving as President of the St. Louis chapter
– 35 years with the Boy Scouts of America, serving as Scoutmaster and Commissioner
Ken is survived by his second wife of 28 years, Evelyn Barber Parks. He is also survived by his sons Jim Parks (wife Cheryl), and Tom Parks (wife Reia). His beloved grandchildren include James Parks, Jr. (wife Lisa), Pat Parks (and Lauren Sullivan), Thomas “Keith” Parks, Jr. (wife Amanda), Beatriz Adiputra (husband Ismail), John David Parks, Daniel Parks (and Desiree Overstreet), and Katie Parks (husband Josh Lademora). His beloved great‑grandchildren are Kyle Lemon (and Emily Vilcek), Jax Boeckel, Patrick Parks, Jr., Levi Adiputra, Taliah Parks, and Lily Adiputra. His beloved great-great grandchildren include Lilah and Keegan Lemon.
He was preceded in death by his first wife of almost 45 years, Mildred M. Parks; his son, Kenneth Parks, Jr. and daughter‑in‑law Tereza Parks; his parents, Mildred and Clayton Parks; and his sisters, Madge Hurter and Virginia Nelson.
Funeral Visitation & Service
Visitation: Sunday, February 1, 2026, 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Kutis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois, St. Louis, MO 63123. Phone: 314-842-4458
Service: Monday, February 2, 2026, 11:00 am, Kutis Funeral Home
In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight https://gslhonorflight.org/donate/ or the American Cancer Society https://donate.cancer.org/?campaign=default&lang=en, causes close to his heart.