Douglas Russell Parker passed away on December 21, 2017 at the age of 61. He was born on May 22, 1956 in Corvallis, Oregon to Melva and Ralph Parker. He grew up in Sweet Home and moved to Gresham where he graduated from Gresham High before attending Willamette University.
Doug was a loving, supportive, and treasured husband and father to his wife Barbara and son Brian; beloved brother to Melinda Sullivan and Michael and James Parker; and uncle to many nieces and nephews.
After working in the construction, restaurant and insurance industries, Doug returned to Willamette University to complete his education and pursue a career as a high school social studies teacher. He found great satisfaction working with students as a teacher, mentor and advisor. He was a gifted storyteller well known for his dry sense of humor, and for the many creative learning opportunities he generously provided. His students commented that, “Mr. Parker inspired us to make the world a better place”, and recognized and thanked him for “being an amazing example of a human being”. Another student added, “I hope to become the kind of teacher, and more importantly, the kind of parent you are. I always love watching the way your eyes light up when you talk about your son.”
Doug was a voracious reader and enjoyed travelling and spending time with family and friends in the great outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, rafter/kayaker, hiker, bird watcher and environmentalist. His was a rich life.
A celebration of life will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, January 14, 2018, in Cone Chapel of Waller Hall at Willamette University. The family suggests remembrances to the American Cancer Society or The Nature Conservancy.
American Cancer Society
https://www.cancer.org/?&gclid=Cj0KCQiA4bzSBRDOARIsAHJ1UO7-Y18-9kOmqoaPf4wzhy5RNRkeNCkNTYpExM_FimVBIHjwGRdDHCYaAisUEALw_wcB
The Nature Conservancy
https://support.nature.org/site/Donation2?df_id=12640&12640.donation=form1&sbid=B01&crid=VP15&set.SingleDesignee=15097&src=sea.awp.prnone&suslb=yes&gclid=Cj0KCQiA4bzSBRDOARIsAHJ1UO55KHgooOQeW-v-jQxYEgoxdt39ykZapHcnSpUUuYADl9Ok0ZbcDLIaAgVeEALw_wcB
He will be missed by all who knew him and was touched by his kindness, his humor and his stories. (please note, his date of death should read 12/21/2017)
I will miss my late evening chance meetings with Doug at FedEx. We would do a quick catch up and then work on papers for our respective classes.
Always know Barb, that you are loved by many and will have our support during these hard days. Janet and Ron
Dear Barb and Brian, We are so sorry for your loss. We remember Doug as a kind person who was so enjoyable to be around.
Please know we are thinking of you with much love. Brian and Angela Feiring and Family
Doug will be remembered as a kind, witty, helpful, and loving man by everyone who knew him. He lived a rich life full of wonderful experiences with his family, his students and nature as the center of his world. A life well lived. He will be greatly missed. I am thinking of Barb and Brian and I wish you both peace and good memories of a wonderful husband and father.
With deepest sympathy...
♥️♥️
RIP Dear Doug,
Your sweet soul empacted our lives.
What a beautiful tribute to Doug. He was a well-loved man who will always be remembered fondly and with smiles. My heart goes out to Barb, Brian and his family.
I am so sorry Barb and Brian. Your family was so close and you truly enjoyed experiencing life together. Doug impacted many young lives through his teaching career. I know you are grieving this loss.
When I look at Doug's picture I see an expression that hasn't changed since the late 70's when we became friends. I'm reliving warm memories of mutual excitement over a newly released Danny O'Keefe album; late evenings discussing literature at Boone's over Guinness's; and one particularly hilarious attempt at baking banana nut snackin' cake in Seattle. I will forever remember Doug for his strength of gentleness and thoughtfulness and for his admirable authenticity. Extending my deepest sympathies to Barb and Brian and your extended family.
Doug was a beloved husband and father. It has been an honor to serve his family. Thank you for trusting Johnson Funeral Home.