Cole Parker Accident – Obituary: Canton Township Man Dies After Tragic Skid Steer Loader Incident
Canton, OH — August 9, 2025 — The community of Canton Township is mourning the tragic and untimely death of Cole Parker, a hardworking and beloved local man who lost his life following a devastating skid steer loader accident earlier this week. The accident, which occurred at a worksite on the outskirts of town, has left his family, friends, and coworkers in deep shock and sorrow, grappling with the sudden loss of a man known for his integrity, kindness, and work ethic.
According to the Stark County Sheriff’s Office, emergency responders were called to the scene on Tuesday afternoon after reports of a workplace accident involving heavy machinery. Investigators confirmed that Parker, 33, was operating a skid steer loader when the machine overturned under unclear circumstances, pinning him beneath it. Despite the rapid response of paramedics and fire crews, Cole was pronounced dead at the scene due to traumatic injuries.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is conducting a formal investigation into the incident to determine if equipment malfunction or safety protocol violations may have contributed to the accident.
A Devoted Family Man and Friend
Born and raised in Canton Township, Cole Parker was the embodiment of blue-collar values and Midwestern heart. He was a dedicated employee in the construction and landscaping industry, known among colleagues for his dependability, mechanical skill, and pride in his craft. To those who knew him best, he was so much more than a worker — he was a fiercely loyal friend, a beloved son, a supportive brother, and a loving father.
Cole leaves behind his longtime partner Emily Richards and their two young children, ages 7 and 4, who were the center of his world. Family members described him as a hands-on dad who could often be found coaching tee-ball, fixing bikes in the driveway, or planning weekend fishing trips at the nearby reservoir.
“My brother was the guy you called when your car broke down, when your roof was leaking, or when you just needed to talk,” said his older sister, Kaitlyn Parker. “He showed up — always. He was the glue of our family.”
Community in Mourning
Since news of the accident spread, an outpouring of support has come from across Canton and beyond. Friends and neighbors have delivered meals, sent flowers, and offered donations to help the Parker family through this heartbreaking time. Coworkers from Cole’s job site held a moment of silence the morning after his passing and described him as “the kind of guy who never cut corners — who did every job right and helped others do the same.”
Social media has been flooded with tributes to Cole, with messages of remembrance from classmates, coworkers, and friends from all walks of life.
“Cole had the kind of laugh you’d never forget,” wrote one childhood friend. “He could light up a room without saying much. You just felt better when he was around.”
Local businesses have begun fundraising efforts to assist the family, and a GoFundMe page has been created to help cover funeral costs and provide financial support for Cole’s children.
Honoring a Life Cut Short
In a community gathering planned for this weekend, friends and family will host a celebration of life in Cole’s honor at Jackson Township Community Park on Saturday, August 10 at 6:00 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear Cole’s favorite color — navy blue — and bring photos, stories, and memories to share.
A candlelight vigil will follow, organized by local residents who were deeply touched by Cole’s kindness, generosity, and the way he lived his life with purpose and quiet dignity.
“Cole didn’t ask for attention or praise,” said Pastor Raymond Hale of Grace Chapel Church. “He simply loved his family, worked hard, and made people feel seen and valued. That’s the kind of legacy we should all strive for.”
Final Arrangements
Funeral services for Cole Parker will be held on Tuesday, August 13, at Reed Funeral Home in Canton, with visitation hours the day before from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at the same location. A private burial will follow at Forest Hill Cemetery, where family and close friends will say their final goodbyes.
The Parker family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the children’s education fund — a trust being set up in Cole’s name to ensure his dreams for his kids can still become reality.
A Legacy of Hard Work and Heart
Cole Parker’s death is a painful reminder of the risks many face in physically demanding occupations — and of the preciousness of every single day. In life, Cole was a man who didn’t need accolades or titles to leave a mark. He lived with humility, he loved fiercely, and he gave everything to the people and the world around him.
Though his time on earth was far too short, the values Cole instilled — hard work, loyalty, love, and selflessness — will endure in the lives of those he touched and in the children who will carry his memory forward.
Rest in peace, Cole Parker. Your hands built more than homes — they built a life full of love, laughter, and legacy. You will never be forgotten.
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