Mark E. Parsons, 59

Mark Eric Parsons, 59, formerly of Hull, known to friends as “Pickles” and “Steamer,” passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, May 15, from heart disease. 

He is survived by three children: Nathaniel Parsons and his wife, Stephanie, of Gulfport, Miss.; Jennifer Khan and her husband, Christopher, of Leesburg, VA.; and Melanie Parsons of Richmond, VA. 

He is also survived by three grandchildren: Ryder Hipp of Richmond, and Zoella and Eliza Parsons of Gulfport. Mr. Parsons was the youngest boy of eight siblings, including Debbie Parsons Dow and her husband, Allen, of Hanover; Eddie Parsons of Hull; Scott Parsons of Plymouth; Jeannie Parsons Blanchard of Abington; Pamela Parsons McGovern and her husband, Michael, of South Attleboro; Cheryl Parsons Laassal and her husband, Hichame, of Chelsea, and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. 

He was predeceased by his parents, Edwin and Ellen Campbell Parsons, and by his brother, David Parsons. 

Mr. Parsons grew up in Hull and was a graduate of Hull High School, Class of 1980. At 18, he joined the Coast Guard where he served as an engineer for six years, then spent the rest of his working life as a mechanical engineer. His passion for serving led him to be a volunteer firefighter for many years, including becoming chief of the Maxie, Miss. Fire Department. Mr. Parsons followed in the footsteps of his dad and brothers and became a Mason. 

As a single father, the most important thing to him was his family and many friends from around the country. He always had a smile and joke to share with those around him. He loved spending his time outdoors whether he was hunting or spending time on his true love, the water. Mr. Parsons was a generous spirit who at first seemed reserved but never met a stranger. His absence will be something that will be felt by all who knew him. 

Visiting hours will be held at Downing Cottage Funeral Chapel, 21 Pond St., Hingham, on Monday, May 23 from 4-7 p.m. A Masonic service will be held in the funeral home immediately following visiting hours at 7 p.m. Interment will be held Tuesday, May 24, at 10:45 a.m. at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne.

Due to flower restrictions at the cemetery, donations in Mark Parsons’s memory may be made to the American Heart Association.

For additional information and online guestbook, visit www.downingchapel.com.