Michael Parnell

My Father, 1938 - 2017

​Dad died just over 8 years ago; just now I don't feel comfortable writing about his life on a website. So, here are some basic details and a photograph of me and Dad. He must have been aged 21 or 22.  Maybe I'll add to this page another day with some reminiscences and memories...  

Michael was born in Salford in 1938, on the eve World War 2.  His parents were Stanley Parnell and Eileen Marshall.  Michael was the second born; he had two brothers and a sister.   

​During World War 2 the family evacuated to Rhoscolyn, Anglesey. His dad, Stanley, was stationed at R.A.F. Valley nearby.  

​In 1956 Michael married June Bay; he was 18 and she 17. They had a daughter, Janet and six years later came a son, Nicholas.  For the first five years of marriage they lived with June's parents in Weaste, Salford.  

Michael was conscripted to serve three years in the RAF, after which he trained to be an Accountant. He worked as an Accountant / Manager all his working life. The family lived in Manchester in the early years with Michael working at both Colgate and Courtaulds in Trafford Park. The Colgate factory has now become the 'Soap Works' at fashionable Salford Quays. The family's first house of their own was at Anson Street, Monton and they later moved to Stour Road, Astley.  

In 1972 the family moved to Lincolnshire. Michael worked for Courtaulds in Grantham but when the factory closed, he helped set up a workers co-operative making leisurewear. Latterly he worked at Veronica Moss, a bridal factory. The couple lived at Old Hall Cottage, Tow Lane, Foston and were very involved in village life.   

Michael retired from work early due to health issues and he and June retired to Sheffield to be nearer Janet, Nick and their families. Michael died in 2017.