James Henry Parah, 71, of Haverhill passed away peacefully with his family by his side Friday, May 15, at his residence after a seven-month-long battle with cancer.
Born in Lawrence, he was the son of Alfred A. and Margaret (Buttrick) Parah. He attended St. Patrick’s Grammar School and was a graduate of Lawrence High School, class of 1962. A self-employed painting and wallpapering contractor, Parah retired from Jim’s Painting and Papering two years ago. He had previously worked as a real estate broker for various real estate agencies in Haverhill. He also worked 15 years at Modicon in Andover (now known as Schneider Electric). Parah was very active in charitable organizations in Haverhill and Methuen. As a 33-year member of the Haverhill Lodge of Elks #165, he rose through the ranks and served as exalted ruler, a life member. He was also awarded an honorary life member by his fellow members for outstanding service, dedication and leadership in the lodge. He was also a life member of the Improved Order of Redmen, Sagahew Tribe, Methuen. He volunteered his time and trade skills to Rebuilding Together, helping those in need of repairs to their homes. An avid sports fan, he loved the Patriots and Red Sox. He especially cherished his golf outings with his son James and friends on Fridays.
He leaves his beloved wife of 35 years, Joan L. (Gilford) Parah; son James H. Parah,II and his wife, Tracy (Murray), of Kingston, N.H.; daughter Renee A. Parah-Duval, of Newton, N.H.; four grandchildren, James H. Parah III, Gabriel T. Parah, Madison O. Parah and Sean M. Duval; brother, Alfred C. Parah and his wife, Margaret, of Sandown, N.H.; sister, Mary Rose Herlihy and her husband, Daniel, of Byfield; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his sister, Margaret Cuddy and brother-in-law, William Cuddy of Georgetown.
Friends and family are respectfully invited to attend a memorial service for Thursday, May 21, at 11 a.m. at the Groveland Congregational Church, 4 King St. Groveland. Calling hours will be Wednesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Kevin B. Comeau Funeral Home, 486 Main St. Haverhill. His brother Elks will perform a service at 6 p.m., Wednesday evening.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Elks National Foundation, c/o Haverhill Lodge of Elks, 24 Summer St. Haverhill or to the Groveland Congregational Church.