In Loving Memory of
Evan Closs Parry
1929 - 2023
Obituary of Evan Closs Parry
Passed away peacefully with family by his side, on November 15, 2023, just one day after celebrating his remarkable 94th birthday. Predeceased by his former spouse Marie Laforest. Evan was a devoted father to William (Donna), Robert (Kathy), Deborah (Louie), Thomas (Cathy), Susan, Christopher, and Jeffrey. Proud and loving grandpa to William (Tanya), Lisa (James), Jennifer (Mario), Erin (Matt), Kassy (Jared), Andrea (Dan), Mark (Alyson), Evan, Cameron, Rebecca, Kelsa, and Brandon. Beloved great-grandfather to Kaiya, Reef, Liam, Ryder, Adeline, Madison, Zachary, Austin, Lidia, Leah, Mason, Nolan, Mackenzie, and Bentley. He will be dearly missed by his sister Jane. We take comfort in knowing he is now reunited with his siblings Katharine, Mary, Margaret, Anne and Olwen.Born in Toronto, Evan dedicated 34 years of his life to proudly serve the Toronto Police Service, leaving an indelible mark on the community he loved. Upon retirement, he settled in Welland, where he became a familiar face through his frequent walks in the city. Evan's love for sports, especially hockey, was evident to all who knew him. A passionate fan of the Cleveland Browns and Toronto Maple Leafs, he held a special place in his heart for hockey legend Gordie Howe. Evan's greatest joy was his family. He adored his grandchildren, finding immense happiness in watching them grow up. To him, family was everything, and he lived each day for them.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Extended Care Unit (ECU) at the Welland Hospital for the exceptional care provided to Evan during his six year stay.
In accordance with Evan's wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Covenant House, a charity that was very important to Evan.
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Evan was a true ‘brother in blue’. I was with him on his first trip on an aircraft. He was a ‘white-knuckler’. Under the guidance of the immortal ‘Skinny Henderson’ we, and 11 others, had to travel to Montreal for the trial of a guy charged with murder.
Suspect had been arrested coming off the train from Montreal. Held in custody for Montreal PD and everyone who had contact with him had to attend for a ‘voir dire’ at his trial. Evan was the booking officer! Fond memories of a good guy!
I first met Evan when I was posted to 14 Division in 1976. He was a real gentleman with a good sense of humor. It helped to take some of my nervousness away on my first posting. I am glad he had so many years after his retirement. My condolences to his family and friends.
I was a nervous rookie Cadet assigned to 14 Div when I reported for duty the first time in February 1971. Ev was the Station Duty PC who greeted me and welcomed me to “the job”. I saw him regularly after that, whether on duty, or walking to and from work along Dundas St. He was always a true gentleman and a consumate professional. My condolences to his family, and May he Rest in Peace.
I remember Evan very well. He was my first Booker when I was assigned to 14Div in 1982! What a great guy!! Glad to see he had a long run in retirement. God Bless
I first met Ev at my very first posting; our beloved 14 Division. He was exceptionally kind to this wet behind the ears rookie and was arguably the nicest man that I ever met in my 35 years on the job. My 16 years at the flagship was made very enjoyable due to the likes of Ev. RIP, my Brother.
I met Ev when he was on Staion Duty at 14 Division. He always had a smile and helping hand for the new young officers that came in. A real gentleman and one of the nicest people I ever met.
John Madeley Detective 2525 (retired) No. 14 Division C.I.B.