David Parker

Waunakee -- David L. Parker passed away peacefully with family at his side at Agrace Hospice in Fitchburg on March 1, 2015, at the age of 78. David is survived by his 4 children, Jeff (Pam) of Waunakee, Joy of Deforest, Jim (Karen) of Austin, Texas and Jay (Patti) of Madison; 8 grandchildren, Justin (Bailey), Jeremy (Elise), Janelle (Dan), Ashley (Justin), Kjersten (Jay), Michael, Suzy (Jeff) and Allie; as well as 4 great-grandchildren with one more on the way. He is also survived by his 5 brothers: Duane (Jenny), Arden (Pat), Terry (Mary), George (engaged to Beth) and Steve (Judy). He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce and his parents.

He was born on May 5, 1936, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin to Howard and Irene (Norby) Parker. He graduated from Eau Claire Memorial High School in 1954. He married Joyce, his high school sweetheart, on August 14, 1955, and went on to serve in the Air Force where he was stationed in Frankfurt, Germany. After military service, he finished his college degree from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire with a degree in Education and moved to Madison to begin his teaching career. He also earned a Masters degree from IIT. Dave taught history at West High School, Central High School and then finished his career teaching 26 years at LaFollette as well as serving as the department chair. He retired in 1995.

David was an accomplished singer throughout his life. He sang in high school musicals and numerous church choirs. Of all these, he considered the highlight to be his participation in the Faithful Men Quartet of Crossroads United Methodist Church in Waunakee. His singing allowed him to enrich the lives of so many. Beyond singing in church, he volunteered often at various nursing homes.

In addition to singing, he really enjoyed reading, playing cards with friends and family as well as going to Ho Chunk Casino to play craps. He loved attending orchestra concerts with his good friend, Joyce. He was a devoted Badger and Packer fan. Above all, his family meant the world to him. Family gatherings were some of his most cherished memories.

A special thanks to Crossroads United Methodist Church who have been such a huge part of his life. He contributed significantly to the church family and he felt extremely blessed in return. We would like to also extend a thank you to his special friend, Joyce who was always by his side during good and difficult times. We would also like to acknowledge Agrace Hospice facility for providing compassion and loving care to our dad.

All are welcome to attend the following to celebrate David's life. The visitation will be held at the Winn- Cress Funeral Home, 5785 County Road Q, Waunakee on Friday March 6, 2015, from 5:00PM to 7:00PM. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 7, 2015, at 11:00 a.m. at Crossroads United Methodist Church, 5901 Hogan Road, Waunakee. Rev. Kristen Lowe will preside. Friends may also call at the church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services. Entombment will take place at Highland Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage donations to Crossroads United Methodist Church or Agrace Hospice.

Winn-Cress Funeral Home
5785 Hwy Q
Waunakee, WI