Gordon F. Parent, Jr.

Gordon F. Parent Jr., known to most as “Gord,” passed away at home on February 9, 2026. Gord was born to Gordon and Irene Parent on November 29, 1949, in Toledo, Ohio. He grew up with a strong Catholic faith and, in his youth, served as an altar boy and bishop’s server at Our Lady, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary Cathedral. He attended Central Catholic High School and graduated in 1967.

Following graduation, Gord was drafted into the United States Air Force. He served his country with pride as a Cryptographic Equipment Repairman. In 1973, after his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Gord continued his pursuit of education at the University of Toledo. He earned an associate’s degree in law enforcement in 1976, followed by a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1978, graduating with honors in both programs.

In 1969, Gord began his career at Libbey Owens Ford, working his way up through many positions and company name changes over the years. Much of his work involved development of glass for new car models and traveling throughout the United States, Canada, and even Japan for project startups. It was also there that he met the love of his life, Darlene. After nearly 40 years with the company, he accepted a position in Lexington, Kentucky, with a sister organization, United LN Glass, from which he eventually retired.

Gord married Darlene on September 3, 1993. Along with Darlene came his two stepdaughters, which he promptly dropped the step and forever referred to them as his daughters. He was often found helping with homework, coaching sports, and celebrating milestones in their lives with joy and pride.

Those who knew Gord often described him as stubborn and driven (which he was!), but he was also funny, kind, giving, and deeply loving. He cherished time with his family and spent many years in Kentucky with Darlene camping and enjoying time with their beloved dogs. In 2021, they moved back to the Toledo area to be closer to family.

If there was a sport on TV, Gord was watching it. He was a devoted fan of Kentucky Wildcat basketball, the Green Bay Packers, the Pittsburgh Steelers (because Darlene told him he had to), and the Boston Bruins. He also enjoyed swimming in the community pool and volunteering at the Perrysburg Senior Center and the local VFW. His favorite subject though were his three granddaughters. He loved talking with them, hearing about their lives, showing pictures and bragging about them every chance he had.

Gordon is survived by his daughters Sarah (Gregg) Wade, Stacy (Danny) Lawson; granddaughters Harlie, Zoey, and Zeplynn; siblings Mary Ann (Gene) Robinson and James (Susan) Parent; along with nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

He is proceeded in death by his wife and parents. Also waiting for him at the rainbow bridge are his beloved dogs Buddy, Red, and Snickers.

Services will be private, with a celebration of life to be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wood County Humane Society, the Alzheimer’s Association, or a charity of donors’ choice.