Larry D. Parker, 87, of Tekonsha passed away at home March 27, 2026.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place with a celebration of his life to be held at a future date.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater.
He was born February 6, 1939 to Ralph and Grace Parker of Quincy, Michigan, and was a proud graduate of Quincy High School, Class of 1957.
Larry later settled in Tekonsha, Michigan, where he lived with his devoted wife, Carol, to whom he was married for 43 years.
Larry worked for the State of Michigan at the Coldwater Regional Center as a resident care aide, and widely respected union representative.
At an early age he fell in love with the outdoors. He especially cherished the time spent teaching his sons, grandsons, and nephews the arts of fishing and hunting. There wasn’t a lake within 100 miles that he didn’t catch his limit.
Through those quiet mornings and shared stories, he passed along not just skills, but a lasting appreciation for nature and family. He shared many memorable days and fish on the water with his close friends and fishing companions, Dave and Rod, always leaving fishing camps by saying “tight lines.”
Larry is survived by his wife, Carol, his son Michael (Christine) Parker of Tekonsha, son Douglas Parker of Coldwater, daughter Dianna (Dominic) LaMilza of Bradenton Florida, and daughter Nicole (Lee) Stacey of Avon Lake, Ohio. Along with 10 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and one great-grandchild on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Grace Parker, his sisters Beverly and Carolyn, and his brothers Gary and Bruce Parker.
Larry will be remembered for his love of family, his patience as an outdoorsman mentor, and the steady quiet way he showed up for those he loved… and of course his delicious popcorn.
The family extends a special thank you to Trina of Helping Angel Home Care, LLC for attentive and compassionate care as well as Gentiva Hospice of Jackson, especially Amy and Julie. And to Kris for her special friendship.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Helping Angel Home Care, LLC, 63810 Middle Colon Road, Burr Oak, MI 49030, to Gentiva Hospice, 1965 Boardman Road, Suite B, Jackson MI 49202, or to the Irma L. English Music Scholarship fund through the Branch County Community Foundation.
Comments