Douglas "Doug" Hicks Parkhurst

Douglas "Doug" Hicks Parkhurst, 65, of Lebanon, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 17, 2013 in Middletown, CT (Middlesex Hospice) after a long battle with cancer. Born in Willimantic, CT to William and Mary (Chappell) Parkhurst, the family lived in Lebanon, Oneco, Scotland, finally settling back in Lebanon. Growing up, Doug thrived as the son of a dairy farmer and music teacher/church organist. He excelled in sports, particularly baseball, and in the 5th grade he discovered a love for the trumpet. In high school he played basketball, and was active in theater and school government. He further developed his God-given gift on the trumpet, earning a scholarship to Boston University School of Fine Arts. He graduated in 1969 with a Bachelor of Music degree (Music Education), being listed in the 1968-1969 edition of Who's Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. He taught music in New Hampshire, and played trumpet with a jazz ensemble throughout New England. Taking a position with the Massachusetts Hospital Association, he became adept in early computer programming practices. Moving back to Lebanon, Doug took a position at The Hartford, where he worked for 22 years, before retiring early in 1998. Since then, Doug has earned certification as a Project Manager. He has worked as an independent consultant in Information Technology positions, including his most recent contract to work at Pratt & Whitney for the past 7 years. Doug was fan of Red Sox baseball and Patriots football. He had a lifelong love of music, was accomplished as a jazz trumpet player and pianist, was a wine enthusiast and had a passion for books. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Christine (Erickson) Parkhurst of Lebanon, CT; his sons and daughters-in-law, Douglas and Lisa Parkhurst of New London, CT and Michael and Felicia Parkhurst of Phoenix, AZ; his sister, Margaret Johnson of Oak Island, NC; many nieces and nephews, cousins, friends and loved ones. He was predeceased by his parents, and his brothers William and James. His family will receive relatives and friends between 6:00 and 8:00 PM on Thursday, March 21, 2013 at Potter Funeral Home, 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195), Willimantic, CT. Services will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, March 22, 2013 at First Baptist Church of Lebanon, 694 Trumbull Hwy, Lebanon, CT. 06249. Interment will follow in New Lebanon Cemetery. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the First Baptist Church of Lebanon, Connecticut in lieu of flowers. For an online memorial guestbook, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com .