Jesse P. Parsons, age 87, passed away from pneumonia on August 15, 2018 surrounded by his family who miss him dearly. Jesse was born July 17, 1931 and grew up in the small farming community of Ashland, IL. Following high school, Jesse served four years in the Navy during the Korean war, returned home, and married a former high school classmate, (Helen) Louise Woods in 1955. Their marriage endured for almost 63 years. He raised his family in Decatur, IL while working a 36-year career with Caterpillar. His second career following retirement was as a 20-year volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, helping with electrical wiring and construction of many homes. In 2012 Jesse and Louise sold their house of 38 years in Decatur and moved to Delano, MN to be nearer family.

Jesse was known for his quiet but witty demeanor; he had a joke or saying to fit any occasion. He was a practicing Christian and active in the churches of which he was a member, including Woodland Chapel and Antioch Christian in Decatur, and more recently Delano United Methodist. Jesse was a man of infinite patience and persistence coupled with the ability and attitude to tackle any task. He was known for being able to repair just about anything: from cars, to toasters, to a battery-operated toy. His visits to his children’s homes always included much-appreciated help with whatever projects were in progress and in need of his expertise. Jesse had boundless energy and was rarely found sitting down. He was always ready to help someone in need and never sought recognition. He was intrigued by how things worked, including understanding the natural world, and instilled that sense of curiosity in his children. He enjoyed a lifetime of bicycling, camping, and hiking and played tennis for many years.

Jesse is survived by his wife, Louise; three sons, Craig, Dan (Maureen), and Tim (Lesley); daughter, Mary Lou (Geoff) Morris; 9 grandchildren, Emily, Steven, Rachel (Dannewitz), Kenny (Morris), Brian, Laura, Corey, Taylor and Kevin; and one great-grandchild, Vivian (Dannewitz). Jesse was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Cully and Bob, and sister Ada Jane.

Services will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Decatur Area Habitat for Humanity, PO Box 832, Decatur, IL 62525.