NEW PORT RICHEY — Dave Parris, a longtime community activist and Realtor who worked to build an elaborate Christmas display for Pasco's families even as he fought cancer, died Tuesday (Aug. 6, 2014). He was 61.
Mr. Parris was diagnosed in May 2012 with Stage 4 esophageal cancer. It invaded his liver, bones and stomach and left doctors baffled at how he not only survived but kept working and helping others. It also left him with a sense of urgency to create a Christmas season attraction at the 220-acre Safety Town off State Road 52. He hoped to live to see it open this November.
"We are absolutely, 100 percent committed (to the project)," Sheriff Chris Nocco said this week. "We are going to bring Dave's vision to life."
Mr. Parris, who was crowned King Pithla at this year's Chasco Fiesta in honor of his community service, is survived by his wife Carol, son Michael, daughter Kara and granddaughter Mitella. Funeral arrangements had not been announced.