Raymond Lee (Ray) Parkko died Nov. 9, 2017, in Puyallup. He was 76.

He was born Dec. 22, 1940, in Tacoma to the late Toivo and Evelyn (Stewart) Parkko. He attended White Rive High School, where he lettered in football and track, and graduated in 1960. During his senior year, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Scanner. He was stational in Adak, Alaska, where he served as a firefighter, shipfitter, petty officer and engine man. He was honorably discharged in 1965 and began working on fishing boats.

He soon returned to Buckley and went to work hauling logs, eventually owning his own business. In 1969 he met Rosie Fields; they married and had three daughters. He loved watching football and meeting friends for coffee. He is remembered as a Jack-of-all-trades, always ready to help those in need.

He is survived by his wife Rosie; daughters Brenda (Jeremy) and Cathy (Troy); brothers Richard (Sharon) and Marvin (Jeanne); sister Betty; and five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by brother Chuck, sister Mary and daughter Sharon.

A funeral service is planned for Friday, Jan. 12, at Tahoma National Cemetery, to be followed by a celebration of his life at the Buckley fire station, 611 S. Division St. The celebration is planned as a potluck, so guests are encouraged to bring food and good stories. For additional information, contact Brenda at 360-761-9262 or Rosie at 360-897-6056.