By Martin Parsons, Jr.
Martin Parsons, born Nov. 6, 1937, in Cordova, Alaska, passed away peacefully on Jan. 11, 2025, in Kirkland Washington, at the age of 87 where he lived a “Hell of a life!”
He was known affectionately as “Skooky,” a nickname given by the Arvidson family when he was a kid, which stuck with him throughout his life. He was loved, cherished, and respected by his family and countless friends.
Born of Scandinavian and Aleut descent, he was the son of Martin and May Parsons. Skooky lived in Alice Cove, grew up in Cordova, and graduated from Cordova High School. Following his education, he enlisted in the Army before returning to Cordova to pursue a career as a commercial fisherman. He spent many years gillnetting on the Copper River Flats and seining in Prince William Sound, embodying the hardworking spirit of Alaska’s fishing community. He was well known for his “marker sets” in Castle, or “round hauling” dogs in Sheep Bay.
Skooky had a deep love for sports, particularly basketball. He was a standout point guard for the Cordova Wolverines where Skooky, Carl Arvidson, and Teddy Siemion played for the state title in 1956. He also liked playing golf and had a great group he played with in Thousand Palms.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Roberta Parsons, his daughter Cheryl Parsons, his sister June Kristovich, and brother Bill Anderson.
He is survived by his wife, Beryl Parsons; his daughter Mimi Christen, her children Eric and Danika, her grandchildren Brooks, Wood and Ellie May; his son Martin M. Parsons, his wife Deanna, their children Martin, Michael, and Brooke, and their grandchild Jayce Dean; Cheryl’s daughter Christina; Beryl’s daughters Heidi, Leticia, and Annalee, their children and grandchildren; his lone surviving sister Barbara; as well as many extended family members and friends who will forever hold him in their hearts.
In accordance with his wishes, Skooky’s ashes will be spread in Sheep Bay, Alaska – a place he held dear to his heart. A private family ceremony will take place there during the summer of 2025.
Martin “Skooky” Parsons will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will bring comfort to those who loved him and inspire fond recollections of a life well-lived.
May his last set be full, and the boat deck loaded.
We wish him fair winds and following seas.
