Harry R. Park (Big Harry), 83, from Houston, TX, formerly of Rock Island, IL, born April 24, 1943, in Chicago, IL, passed away September 14th at Hope Creek Nursing Home, to go dancing with his Angel and Love of his life, Betty.

Harry was the son of Rose Park and Harry Miller Sr., later adopted by his Uncle Raymond Park and wife Addie after Rose passed in childbirth. Harry is survived by his daughter Julie (Les) Gibboney, son John Park, and beloved grandson Wyatt Gibboney. Brother-in-law Jim (Sheila) Ausmus, Colona, IL, nieces Melissa (Bryan) Lear and Shelly (Ryan) McKinzey, along with their families.

He was involved in the Quad City Downs horse racing as an owner and trainer, and then he owned and operated a tack shop called “Big Harry’s” in East Moline. He traveled from Q.C. to Chicago, IL, St. Louis, MO, and Des Moines, IA for several years.

Harry was involved in trucking most of his life, from a terminal manager to an over-the-road driver. He loved trucking; he gave better directions than any GPS you can buy. Throughout his lifetime, he was a trainer for various companies and made lasting friendships with other drivers who called him for advice or directions. He never met a person that he wasn’t willing to help on their journey or just in life; everyone was his friend. He spent over 55 years in the industry after serving in the Army.

One of his greatest enjoyments when at home in Houston was teaching Sunday School at the local Baptist Church. God was very important to him, and teaching others Bible stories gave him great joy. He was a Mason with the Rock Island Masonic Chapter, along with a Member of Eastern Star, also of Rock Island.

Special thanks to neighbors and adoptive family, the Lozanos. To Harry, they were family. Sergio, Maria, Annie, Grace, and Victor, thank you for loving him. Thank you to all the nurses and aides who cared for him at Hope Creek; you are all very special to us.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. 

Family and friends are invited to share memories and condolences on his memory page at www.wendtfuneralhome.com.