Disney Chief Archivist Dave Smith describes his friendship with Disney Legend Fess Parker, who passed away on March 18, 2010.
Dave Smith and former Disneyland cast member Bryan Castleberry visit Fess Parker in 2006.
Over the four decades that I have been at the Walt Disney Archives, I was privileged many times to be able to visit and talk with Fess Parker. Despite his active career schedule in the fast-paced world of Southern California, he was always most generous with his time, and he loved to kick back and share anecdotes of his years working at the Disney Studio.
In 1991, I was able to renew an acquaintance with Fess when he was honored with the prestigious Disney Legend award. By this time, he had begun operating a winery in the Santa Ynez Valley and over the years had frequently tendered invitations for me to visit. Finally, in 2006, I traveled north to Fess’s Wine Country Inn and Spa in Los Olivos with my friend and former Disneyland cast member, Bryan Castleberry.
After generously accommodating us in the Inn, Fess joined us for lunch in its charming dining room, and then took us for a tour and wine tasting at his nearby Fess Parker Winery & Vineyards. I could tell how proud Fess was of his heritage when he walked into the winery’s gift shop, surprising a busload of older women. A hush fell over the group as they recognized this tall, gray-haired but still ruggedly handsome icon from their past. Immediately Fess put them at ease with his friendly manner and they crowded around to shake his hand. He delighted in warmly welcoming the visitors and hearing the multitude of comments about how much Davy Crockett had meant to them as they were growing up.
I shall always have fond memories of the time I was able to spend with Fess. Aside from being an influential actor and staple of the Disney culture, he will always be remembered for his kindness and generosity. Of all the Disney Legends, Fess Parker was certainly right at the top of the list.
