Lucille M. Parks

Madison-Lucille M. Parks, age 81, passed into the loving arms of her Savior on August 14, 2010 following a stoic and courageous battle against cancer.   Born Lucille M. Schmid on May 14, 1929 in Blanchardville, WI.   Raised on a dairy farm, she was a lifelong animal lover.   Her fondest memories were of Betsy the goat that accompanied her on errands in town, a companion cat that attended daily classes with her at the three room schoolhouse, riding bareback on the family draft horse and her German shepherd, Happy.    A trained beautician, she styled, coiffed and gossiped with all social strata in Madison for over forty years.   On November 25, 1950 she married Paul Parks, her husband and companion of nearly 60 years. Her family continues to embrace the memories of her strength, independence, those occasional trips over the ""naughty, but fun line"" and always as a loving wife and mother.   She is survived by Paul, her husband; three sons, Larry of Madison, Michael of Madison and Jeff (Linda) of Belleville; a sister, Rosalie of Madison; brothers in law, Donald and Robert Parks;    and grandchildren Ginny (Belleville) and Casey.    She was preceded in death by her parents, Arnold (Rosina) Schmidt; a brother, Warren Schmidt; a sister Anne (Robert) Rathburn and numerous nieces and nephews. The family expresses their unquantifiable gratitude to long time friend Donna Walsh for her selfless and tireless support of her ""extended family"" during this time of need. Also, a special thank you to the staff at the Don and Marilyn Anderson Hospice Care Center for their compassionate and dignified care during Lucy's last days with us. A memorial service will be held 11:00 AM at Our Lady Queen of Peace, 401 S. Owen Drive, Madison WI on Thursday, August 19, 2010.   Friends may greet the family from 10:30 AM until time of service at church.   The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, you make donations to the Don and Marilyn Anderson Hospice Care Center, 5395 E. Cheryl Parkway; Madison, WI    53711.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Services