Jon R. Parkins, 56, died on May 13, 2016, at the James Center in Columbus. He was born March 29, 1960, in Bluffton, Ohio, to William H. Parkins and Katherine V. Parkins, both of whom preceded him in death.

Jon graduated from Bluffton High school in 1978, and later attended Malone College on a track scholarship as well as Ohio State University.

He was employed at Tower Automotive of Bluffton. He was a competitive track and field athlete and later coach of men’s track and field, girls’ softball, and both boys’ and girls’ basketball.

Jon is survived by two daughters: Amanda Parkins of Austin, Texas, and Ashley (Richard) Bowersock of Indianapolis, Ind., as well as one granddaughter, Madalyn Bowersock. He is also survived by his brothers, Douglas of Adelphi, Edward (Lynette) of Mt Cory, Philip of Lima, and William Jr. (Christopher) of Beaverdam, as well as his sisters, Carole (Tom) Stechschulte of Columbus Grove, Rebecca Franck of Shreve, and Sharon (Gary) Marshall of Beaverdam. 

The family will receive friends and visitors at Chiles-Laman Funeral and Cremation Services in Bluffton on Thursday, May 19, from 1 to 4 p.m., with memorial service immediately following.

The family has requested memorial contributions be made to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation. Condolences can be expressed at www.chiles-laman.com.