Jon G. Parsons, 84,, has passed away, leaving behind a family and community who loved him dearly.
These are the contours of a life that meant a great deal to many.
Jon's story began in 1937, and unfolded across the years that followed.
Jon held deeply to the Presbyterian faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
There is a discipline of duty that shapes a life long after the uniform is set aside.
Jon G. Parsons, 84 of Hurley and Viborg, died Monday, October 3, 2022 at the Pioneer Memorial Hospital in Viborg. Arrangements are pending for a Celebration of Life service to be held for Jon and Karla in Hurley with burial at the Hurley Cemetery. Jon Gray Parsons was born on November 10, 1937 in Sioux Falls, SD to John and Esther (Hawk) Parsons. He grew up on the family homestead in Hurley, attending school and graduating from Hurley High School in 1955. He farmed until 1961 when he enlisted in the US Army. Jon was posted to Korea as a heavy equipment mechanic with the 44th Engineer Construction Battalion. He returned to Hurley and resumed farming. In 1964, he married Karla Benson and had two daughters, Jayne and Joan. Jon had a voracious appetite for reading and learning; his interests in construction, deconstruction, and all things mechanical were put to use on the farm. He was known for his prowess in welding, ability to solve a tricky problem, and willingness to fix or build just about anything. Jon was a member of Harmony Presbyterian Church and the Hurley Legion. He served with the Legion Honor Guard and Rifle Squad and for years helped set up the Avenue of Flags. He loved spending time with his niece, Jolyn, and his grandchildren, Luke and Marin, teaching them how to shoot and take care of guns, rig a line for fishing, drive all kinds of vehicles, and how to tell a good joke. These life lessons usually ended with a reminder that mom and grandma didn't need to know about everything. Jon was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and daughter, Joan. He is survived by his daughter, Jayne (Lance) Bultena; grandchildren, Luke and Marin Bultena; brother, Jay (Melanie) Parsons; niece, Jolyn (Paul) Munson and grandnieces, Aubrey and Lillian.
