1956 ~ 2024
Cedar – David Keith Parker, 68, of Cedar passed away peacefully at his home on June 3, 2024.
Dave was born on February 23, 1956 in Traverse City to the late Keith Edward and Margaret Ellen (Bernhardt) Parker.
Dave graduated from Traverse City High School in 1974.
Dave worked on the family farm, Keith Parker Farm, for over 56 years. He also worked in housekeeping at Munson Medical Center for 14 years.
In his free time, Dave loved driving and taking care of his truck. His 1978 GMC Sierra Classic was his pride and joy, which he drove over 270,000 miles both near and far. Woodworking and building were other favorite pastimes. He built his own small shop, which later became his “man-cave,” where he spent countless hours listening to music, watching television, and in later years, listening to Dr. David Jeremiah, founder of Turning Point Radio and Television Ministries. No matter where Dave went, he was accompanied by his ever-present 2-liter bottle of Mountain Dew. Dave was also known as the unofficial campaign manager for Leelanau County’s longest serving county commissioner, Melinda Lautner. This self-proclaimed title brought him great joy.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Margaret Parker.
Dave is survived by his siblings Phyllis (Morrie) Walworth, Brenda Parker, Wesley Parker, Carol Sears and Tim (Christine) Parker; 10 nieces and nephews and many other extended family members and friends.
The funeral service was held on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at West Side Community Church. Graveside services took place at Solon Township Cemetery.
If you were unable to attend the service, it was livestreamed at https://control.resi. io/webplayer/video.html?id=a038de767963-47be-bb60-2715ac423139 Dave’s family truly appreciates all of the compassionate services provided to him by his Munson Hospice caregivers during the last years of his life. Dave and his family were also blessed by the life-long support that came from extended family, neighbors and church community members.
Memorial contributions may be directed to West Side Community Church (www. tcwscc.com) or to Munson Healthcare Hospice (www.munsonhealthcare.org) Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your memories and condolences with his family.
