Sean E. Parnell, Sr., 60, of Wheatfield, NY, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on February 28, 2026. Born in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late Peter J. Parnell and Peggy (Lane) Miller.

Raised in Wheatfield, Sean graduated from Niagara Wheatfield High School in 1983. Early on, his career took him to Massachusetts, where fate introduced him to the love of his life, Lisa (Emery) Parnell. They married on December 20, 1987, in Haverhill, MA, and spent five wonderful years there before moving to Wheatfield to raise their four beloved children. Sean and Lisa were inseparable partners in every sense, at home, in life, and at work. For many years, Sean currently served as General Manager at Recreational Warehouse, where he worked side-by-side with Lisa daily.

A third-degree black belt, Sean was deeply involved with the Project Future Center beginning in 1999. He taught kickboxing, supervised youth martial arts programs, and became a mentor to countless people.

Sean lived life with enthusiasm and a wide range of passions. He was an avid golfer, a devoted caretaker of his property, and happiest when riding his tractor, tending to his gardens, or working outdoors. He loved canning, making his own hot sauce, cooking, baking, hosting backyard barbecues, and spending time by the pool. He also enjoyed photography, music, and camping, and proudly rooted for the Buffalo Bills.

Those who knew Sean will remember him as selfless, fun loving, joyful, and full of humor.

Above all his interests, family was the center of his world. Nothing brought him greater happiness than time spent with his children and especially his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He was a proud Papa cherishing their laughter, and pouring his heart into every moment he shared with them. The memories he created with his family will be held close and cherished forever.

In addition to his wife of 38 years, Sean is survived by his beloved children, Patricia L. (Richard) Haberl, Sean E. Parnell, Jr., Aaron J. Parnell, Patrick R. (Shannon A.) Parnell; his loving grandchildren, Eleanor R. Haberl, Elliott C. Haberl, Finley S. Parnell and Keegan E. Parnell; three siblings, Robert (Patti) Norris, Patricia Wienke and Mark Norris; his half-brother, Shannon Parnell, as well as many loving nieces, nephews and cousins. Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Raymond (Karen) Norris and Richard Norris.

Visitation will be on Friday, March 6 from 3 – 8 PM at M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY, where funeral services will begin on Saturday, March 7 at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow in Elm Lawn Cemetery, Tonawanda, NY. In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to the Down Syndrome Parents Group of WNY at dspgwny.org. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.