Retired United States Army Major Roland "Ron" R. Parr, 78, Punta Gorda, passed away peacefully in Tidewell Hospice House of Port Charlotte Florida on Wednesday, 23 October 2013.

Ron was born January 12, 1935, in Drayton North Dakota. He retired in 1974 as Commandant of the U.S. Army Airborne School at Fort Benning Georgia.

During his 20 year military career, Ron served three tours of duty in Vietnam, most notably as a Military Advisor and Infantry Company Commander. He was awarded two Silver Stars for gallantry in action, three Bronze Stars, the Purple Heart,and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star and Palm.

Ron taught high school and Junior ROTC in North Carolina. He moved to Florida where he sold real estate and started Parr Marine Construction.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Fay; children, Shelly Mayr, Ron Parr Jr., Steve Parr, and Mickey Weir; brother, Mark Parr; 11 grandchildren; and seven great-granddaughters.

Burial will be at a later date in Sarasota National Cemetery with Military Honors.

The family would like all to know that the Staff at Tidewell Hospice in Port Charlotte was compassionate and caring, and made Ron's last few days very peaceful. Donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice, 1158 Veronica St., Port Charlotte, FL 33952.

Ron may be kindly remembered at icscremationandfunerals.org and can be found on Facebook at facebook.com/icscremationandfunerals