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Eugene "Hughie" Parker, 85, of Altoona, went home to be with the Lord on Friday from complications of COVID-19 at UPMC Altoona. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Paul and Elizabeth Parker. On April 27, 1957, he married Lucille Cornet at St. Mary's Church in Altoona.
Surviving are his wife of 63 years, Lucille "Trumpet"; daughters, Donalee "Deebo" and Dave Boyce, Renee "Sam" and Keith Grigg; son, Todd "T.J." and Kim; brother, Paul and Gerri in California; grandchildren: Tyler "Duck" and Brandy, Collin "Scooter" and Sarah, Victoria "Torrie" and CJ "Airman," Parker "Park" Grigg, Austin "Austin James," Marci "Marcella" and Mitchell "Mitchman" Parker; great-granddaughters: Tabby, Sophia, Audrey and Harper; nieces, nephews, and everyone who called him Poppy.
Hughie was a 1953 graduate of Altoona High School and attended Shippensburg College. He served his country in the United States Army.
He was an account manager with Hills Brothers Coffee/Nestle Beverage and retired after 27 years.
Hughie was an assistant football coach at Bishop Guilfoyle and a youth league referee. He was a PIAA official for 45 years in football, basketball, softball, baseball, volleyball and numerous summer leagues. He was inducted into the Central Pennsylvania National Football Foundation Hall of Fame on March 20, 2016. He umpired baseball from Little League to City League and was known to call a fair game.
Hughie enjoyed Penn State football, and made memories with his family at games in Happy Valley and many bowl games. He volunteered yearly with Special Olympics and the Turkey Bowl.
He was the "Mayor" of Duck Beach every 28th week of the year with his extended family and friends for 30 years.
Traveling was one of Hughie's favorite pastimes he shared with his wife and family. He was the "bus driver" for all of his grandchildren, and truly loved life to its fullest.
He attended daily mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, where a celebration of his incredible life will be held at a later date.
Due to COVID-19, there will be no visitation. Memorials can be made to Sacred Heart Church or their Food Pantry.