Robert Parker, 80

Robert “Bob” Parker, 80, of Tilton, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2025, with his son by his side after a brief battle with cancer. Just 3.5 months after the passing of his beloved wife, Diane, Bob followed her — proving that after 47 years together, they could only stand to be apart for a short time.

Bob was born on July 5, 1944, in Franklin. He grew up playing sports — especially football, basketball and boxing. Despite his smaller stature, “Little Bobby Parker” was elected captain of his high school football team, a testament to his heart, determination and leadership. He graduated from Franklin High School and went on to proudly serve in the United States Army as a paratrooper and squad leader with the 82nd Airborne Division, including overseas service in the Dominican Republic.

After his military service, Bob worked briefly for Delta Airlines as a computer operator in Atlanta, Georgia, before returning to New Hampshire, where he spent the remainder of his career as a computer operator for the State of New Hampshire, retiring after many years of dedicated service.

Bob met the love of his life, Diane Belair, after being introduced by friends at the Elks Club. They married in 1977 and were inseparable for the next 47 years. Together they raised their son, Rob, whom they supported in every endeavor — never missing a game or practice. Bob became a proud grandfather in 2013 with the birth of Reagan, and again in 2015 with Nathan, who brought him endless joy.

A longtime and active member of the Franklin Elks Lodge #1280, Bob loved playing cards — beating most opponents except his grandchildren. He was a constant tinkerer, always working on a project or building something, including multiple homes. He especially cherished time spent with his grandchildren, watching Reagan play soccer and cheering Nathan on in soccer, basketball, football and lacrosse.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane Belair Parker of Tilton.

He is survived by his son, Rob Parker and his wife Erin of Granby, Connecticut; his grandchildren, Reagan and Nathan; his brother, Melvin Parker and his wife Rosalie; his sister, Sandy Meskys; his brother-in-law, Jim Belair and his wife Ellen; his sister-in-law, Janet Guild; his brother-in-law, Rick Belair and his wife Chris; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the many wonderful friends and extended family who supported both Bob and Diane throughout their journey.

Visiting hours will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 19, at the Smart Memorial Home, 584 W. Main St., Tilton. A graveside service with military honors will be at 9 a.m. on Friday, June 20, at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscawen. A luncheon will follow the burial at 11 a.m. at the Franklin Elks Lodge 1280, 125 S. Main St. in Franklin.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Franklin Elks Lodge #1280 Scholarship Fund, 125 S. Main St., Franklin, NH 03235.