R. I. P. Fess Parker
I’ll never forget that, for my first Halloween, I was dressed as Davy Crockett. That was thanks to Fess Parker’s unforgettable portrayal of the coonskin-capped hero.
Parker did not overstay his welcome in Hollywood, became involved in Republican politics as a close friend of Ronald Reagan’s, and became an excellent winemaker as well.
He passed away today at the age of 85. I cannot overstate his impact on an impressionable young kid like me. Rest in peace, Fess.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAVN_n0PljQ&feature=related[/youtube]
The Wellingtons- “The Ballad of Davy Crockett”
My wife and I heard the news on the way home tonight. She still knew the words to the Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone theme songs. I got the coonskin cap for Christmas. Wish I still had it.
He’s deeply implanted in my memory too.
RIP Fess.