Obituary of Leon Arvel Parkey

Leon Arvel Parkey passed away peacefully on April 11, 2023, at the age 75, at his home of 30 years with family by his side. He was born September 6,1947 to Arvel Leon Parkey and Anna Marie Parkey, in Oakland California.

Leon joined the Army in 1967 and received an honorable discharge in 1969. He was at the forefront of a generation of welding and blacksmith artistry and shared his knowledge and artistic skills with his children. He created beautiful hand forged gates and railings in many communities. After a 57-year career as a welder, blacksmith, and metal fabricator, he retired from Parkey’s Welding and Design, the business he owned and operated for over 30 years. Leon found Jesus Christ at the age 40 on Father’s Day. He met Cheryl Ann in 1990 and they married in 1992 in Pine Grove. His favorite way to relax was going to Bear River with his wife, his dog, and his boat.

Leon is survived by Cheryl, his beloved wife of 31 years; eight adult children, Chris (Sherry), Danielle (Rob), Elizabeth (Brian), Sarah, Joshua (Shelby), Beth (Philip), Jacob (Carly) and Nathan (Heather); Twelve grandchildren, Toria, Jenae, Calliope, Jake, Isabell, Daniel, Liam, Declan, Becket, William, Carson and Juniper; sister, Diane (Mike); brother-in-law Alan; ex-wife Jean; cousins; niece and nephews; and grandnieces and grandnephews. He is preceded in death by brother, Rodger Parkey.

Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of life that will be held at the family home in Pioneer on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at 1:00p.m. Bring your favorite dish for a potluck while we share stories, memories, and love.

Memorial donations can be made to Hospice of Amador & Calaveras or Interfaith Food Bank of Amador County.