Claude Henning Parkinson, “Squawk”, cherished husband, father, grandfather and brother passed away peacefully at home, April 21, 2016 after a short battle with cancer. Claude was born May 7, 1929 to George S. and Anna Johnson Parkinson in the family home in Grantsville. Hegraduated from Grantsville High School in 1948. While at GHS he enjoyed participating in the traveling roadshow, playing center on the football team and making lifelong friendships. Claude served in the Army from 1950-52 during the Korean War. When he returned from Korea he continued working for Morton Salt Company for 43 years until his retirement in 1991. In addition to his full-time employment, Claude painted and wallpapered homes around Tooele County to help provide for his family. Claude married Maralee Skogerboe on September 11, 1954. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Salt Lake Temple. Squawk loved Grantsville. He served on the zoning and planning commission and also as a city councilman. After retirement, he volunteered many years as the curator of the Donner Reed Museum where he enjoyed meeting people from around the world. Claude also served in various capacities for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Claude was known for his happy nature, quick smile, coin tricks and story-telling. Claude is survived by his wife of 61 years, Maralee; his three daughters, Doelene Pitt (Craig), Patricia Parkinson, and Krista Sparks (Bryan) and daughter-in-law Jody Parkinson Yager (Tom) all of Grantsville. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 2 great, great grandchildren. Claude is also survived by his sister Lois Lawrence (Bert), and sister-in-law Wanda Parkinson. He was preceded in death by his son George S. Parkinson, parents and six siblings. A viewing will be held at the Grantsville Stake Center, located at 550 East Durfee on Wednesday, April 27th from 6-8PM. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 28th at the Grantsville Stake Center at 12:00PM with a viewing from 10-11:30AM. Interment will be at the Grantsville City Cemetery following the services. A special thank you to Didericksen Memorial for directing the services and to Rocky Mountain Hospice for their excellent care.
