"Cindy, My thoughts and prayers are with you and the kids during this very difficult time in your lives. May the good memories help you thru the tough times ahead."
In loving memory of
James M. Parker
June 16, 1958 - September 15, 2002
James Jim Michael Parker, 44, of 468 W. Hewitt Ave., Marquette died at home on Sunday, September 15, 2002 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrigs Disease.
Jim was born to Dorothy and Leonard E. Parker in Marquette on June 16, 1958. He was a 1977 graduate of Marquette Senior High School. Jim resided all of his life in Marquette and was employed by Earth Grain Bakery (formerly known as Bunny Bread) as a Shipping Superintendent until his retirement in June of 2000, due to his disease.
Jim enjoyed life to its fullest. He was an avid Green Bay Packer fan and loved watching NASCAR, golf, and CNN. The thing he enjoyed most was spending time with all his loving family and friends.
On May 24, 1980 Jim married his love, Cindy Leach, who cared for him with un-measurable love and patience until his passing. Jim and Cindy have two children, Christopher of Marquette, and Jessica, at home. He is also survived by his father Leonard E. Parker, brothers Clark (Dina) Parker, Leonard R. (Julie) Parker, Alan (Margaret) Parker, and Paul Parker of Marquette; sisters Bonnie (John) Longhi of Green Bay, WI and Peggy (Phillip) Mickelson of Dallas-Fort Worth, TX. Jim is also survived by his father-in-law and mother-in-law Robert and Wanda Leach, brothers-in-law Gavin (Robin) Leach, Bill Leach (fianc Liz Grenke), Jenny ( Mike Thiel ). Jim also has several nieces and nephews. His mother Dorothy E. Parker and sister Janie M. Parker preceded Jim in death.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful care-givers of Lake Superior Hospice Association who provided Jim and Cindy with the much needed help during his disease. Cindy offers a special thanks to Dr. Skendzel who was there for them from the beginning, and all of their wonderful family, and friends who helped them laugh.
Visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, September 17, 2002, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Canale-Tonella Funeral Home followed by services at 7 p.m. in the funeral home with the Rev. Dr. Mark Engle of St. Paul's Episcopal Church officiating. Interment will take place in the Park Cemetery.
Honorary pallbearers will be David Benson, Mike Fosco, Brian Young and Paul Parker.
Tributes
"Jimmy and the rest of the Parker family were like family to me growing up. I have many fond memories of Jimmy from my days in Marquette. I am glad I took the time to see him an my last two trips back. He will be truly missed. The entire Parker family will be in my thoughts and prayers."
"Cindy: My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. You and Jim have had many years together and I have always admired your strength and love for eachother. Please stay strong and God Bless. I hope to see you soon. Karen Zinski and family"
"I Remember some good times with Jim and Cindy. I have not seen either for years however, I do remember!! I'll bet Jim is watching us all now and hes still smileing."
"My deepest sympathy to the family of Jim Parker. I worked at the Bakery for 20 years and remember Jim as a dedicated, hard-working employee, and a kind, friendly person. I hope the happiness I saw in the pictures, in time, help to ease your pain."