Funeral Services Set for Former Grand Rapids Fire Chief

Obituary from Legacy.com

Steven Craig Parsons, age 73, of Grand Rapids, Ohio passed away on Tuesday, January 30, 2024. Steve was born in Toledo, OH on January 21, 1951, to the late Roy and Betty Parsons. Steve was a 1969 graduate of Otsego High School. In 2003, he married Sharon Smith. Steve retired from Waterville Fire Department as the fire chief. He was a faithful member of Grand Rapids Volunteer Fire Department and Grand Rapids Masonic Lodge #289.

Steve is survived by his loving wife of 21 years: Sharon Parsons; children: Kelly (Greg) Burris, Stacy (Nelson) Zulch, Michael Parsons; stepchildren: Ryan (Jen) Smith, Amy (Jon) Jones, Adam (Kalea) Smith; grandchildren: Logan, Walker, Haven, Mia, Henry, Tatum, Eli, Grayson, Bodie; siblings: Sharon (Jim) Carter, Gayanne Youngpeter, Denny (Kathy) Parsons, Judy (Dick) Keifer, Gary (Jackie) Parsons, Cathy Jeffers (Doug Grey).

Despite his ongoing health challenges since his retirement 11 years ago it was always a priority to spend time with those he loved – relationships always came first. Simple pleasures like hunting, “coffee” with siblings, golf cart rides for the young grandchildren, attending events for the teenage grandchildren and listening to the daily happenings shared by his wife and children were treasured. He gave 47 years of on call 24/7 service to his community by way of his passion for firefighting. He trained many past and present fire personnel in several departments in the Northwest Ohio area by sharing his vast knowledge and skill set that were second nature to him.

His laughter and comradery will always be remembered by a very special group of friends as well – retired fire fighters who meet every Thursday for breakfast. That group of men were extremely important to him. He will be truly missed as the storyteller in many settings. He was bigger than life, but constantly humble about his many accomplishments – both professionally and personally.
Always take the time to spend with those that are meaningful to you – it matters. As Steve would say ‘ Elvis has left the building.’

Visitation will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024, at Grand Rapids Township Fire Department, 17706 Wapakoneta Road, Grand Rapids, OH 43522 from 3:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. with the last alarm service at 7:45 P.M. Masonic services will be held on Saturday, February 3, 2024 @10:45 A.M. with funeral services at 11:00 A.M. also at Grand Rapids Township Fire Department with pastor Scott Carman officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Grand Rapids Township Fire Department.