VINTON: Rick L. Parmater, 72, passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife, children, and grandchildren.

Services will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at the Phillips Funeral Home Chapel (212 E. 6th Street, Vinton, IA 52349) officiated by Pastor Darrian Adkins, followed by interment at Evergreen Cemetery in Vinton. Visitation will be held from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, June 24, 2026 at the Phillips Funeral Home Chapel.

Rick was born on December 29, 1953, in Vinton, Iowa, to Robert and Bernice (Whitson) Parmater and was raised on the family farm in rural La Porte City, Iowa. Rick took great pride in growing up on the farm and credited several of the values that would shape his later life to the lessons he learned upon the farm. Hard work, service, and love of family - it was these lessons that would define him throughout his life and guide him in his many pursuits.

Rick graduated from La Porte City High School before answering a higher calling to serve his country. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he quickly distinguished himself as an Honor Graduate - a highly recognized distinction reserved for the recruit who most exemplifies the Marine Corps ideals.

Following his time in the Marine Corps, Rick continued his military career with the Iowa Army National Guard, serving in the 133rd Infantry Battalion. He initially enlisted as a Rifle Squad Leader but was quickly selected for Officer Candidate School (OCS). Rick attended OCS and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. He rose to the rank of Captain and went on to become Company Commander of "A" Company. Rick's determination, his integrity and his commitment to the men he led would define this chapter of his life. Rick's service was a point of deep pride to him, shaping the disciplined, effective and principled leader he became.

After his military service he focused on his civilian career with Quaker Oats. As before, he excelled as a leader and was selected for positions of higher responsibility, eventually becoming the manager of grain elevators at the Cedar Rapids plant. Rick was a dedicated manager and worked for Quaker Oats for 25 years. His work ethic, reliability, and steadfast presence earned him the respect of colleagues and team members alike.

In 1980, Rick married the love of his life, Pamela Nelson of Springville, Iowa, and they began their 46‑year marriage, rooted in love and family. Together they raised four sons - Jared (Jessica), Shawn (Jenna), Zachary (Natalie), and Benjamin (Shannen) - instilling in them the same values that had served him so well. Rick's greatest pride was his family, and his greatest joy was becoming a grandfather. He is survived by eight grandchildren, each of whom brought him immeasurable happiness and carry forward his legacy of strength, service, and love of family.

Rick was an avid outdoors-man and was truly at home when on the water or in the field. He taught his sons the joy and respect of the outdoors, the thrill of a good hunt, the peace of a calm lake, and the magic of their beloved Canada, where summer fishing trips became treasured family tradition.

Rick leaves behind his wife, Pam, of Vinton; his four sons and their families; and a lifetime of memories that will continue to guide and inspire those who loved him. His life was marked by service, shaped by devotion to family and country, and remembered with profound gratitude.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Bernice; his brother, Robert Jr.; his sisters, Beth and Susan; his niece, Sue Ann; and nephew, Joshua.

He will be deeply missed, always loved, and forever honored.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Benton County Conservation Foundation at Cedar Valley Bank.