Born in Texas, he grew up on a farm, according to the obituary. He joined the Army in 1969 and served in Vietnam, Parker said.

Parker described his father as a hardworking Texas boy, a patriot and a country poet.

“During the 21 days I was there, ... I pled with the medical staff, the senior medical staff, to increase his meds so his bandages could be changed,” Parker said. “I was met with a stonewall for much of that time.”

Deering said the patient’s medication was increased during his care.

Parker said the floor nursing staff was outstanding, but he is displeased with the senior medical personnel and administration.

Deering said the agency has been considering moving from the facility, which can house up to 175 residents. The facility is nearly 100 years old, he said.

Fixing the existing structures would take millions of dollars, Deering said.

Another problem is the inability to find and retain staff, said Sen. Frank Simpson, R-Springer, chairman of the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs.