Robert C. Parsons

Robert C. “Swampy” Parsons, 85, of Slatington, passed away February 8, 2023, at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Cedar Crest.  He was the husband of Carole F. (Heintzelman) Parsons of Slatington, whom he married October 24, 1959.    Born in Palmerton on May 28, 1937, he was the son of the late William A. II, and Alice (Serfass) Parsons.   Robert graduated from Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology in 1958, majoring in Masonry.   While there, he was a three-year starter for the college football, two of which were undefeated seasons.  After graduation, he continued in athletics, playing nine years with a semi-professional baseball team, and had tryouts with both the Phillies and the Cardinals.    Bob was recognized as a member of the 1st team Lehigh Valley District II for both baseball and football, and also inducted into the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology Hall of Fame in 2013.   He served his country honorably and proudly in the US Army from 1960 - 1962.  He was a self-employed mason / carpenter for many years, with some of his work featured in Good Housekeeping Magazine.   Bob worked on numerous buildings in the Northern Lehigh area, including the Northern Lehigh Athletic weight room.   He was a member of the Slatington Masonic Lodge #440 F & AM, American Legion Post 16, Grundsau Lodge #11, and the Nis Hollow Hunting Club.  
In addition to his wife Carole, he will be lovingly remembered by children, Robert C. Parsons, Jr. and wife Chun of Anchorage, AK, Tammy F. (Parsons) Peterson of Fayetteville, NC, Greg L. Parsons and wife Christine of Cementon.  Grandchildren: Andrea N., Brandon L., Zachary L., Gregory L. Jr., Robert M.; brother: William A. Parsons, III and wife Barbara; sisters: Elaine and husband Larry Borger, Cindy and husband Jack Zmarzley. 
A funeral service will be held at 7:30PM on Wednesday, February 15, 2023, at Harding Funeral Home, 25-27 N. Second Street, Slatington.  Family and friends may pay their respects from 6 to 7:30PM.  Masonic service to be held at conclusion of visitation period.   Burial with military honors at 11AM, Friday, February 17, at Lehighton Cemetery.   Luncheon to follow the burial at American Legion Post 16, Slatington.