Gerald Willard Parker

Dr. Gerald Willard Parker passed away on February 2, 2014 at age 93. He was born in Kerens, Texas on August 24, 1920 to Willard and Minnie May Parker. Dr. Parker is pre-deceased by wives, Reba Land Parker and Jacqueline Marie Parker; his parents; and 2 brothers, Cecil I. Parker and Rudolph Parker.

Dr. Parker graduated from the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 1943. He next answered the call to duty in the United States Army where he served with honor in his medical unit that provided combat support to Patton's 3rd Army in the fight across France and Germany. He was awarded two battle stars, and was among the first wave of U.S. service members to provide life-saving aid to surviving victims of the Dachau concentration camp upon its liberation.

After the end of WWII, Dr. Parker began a long and distinguished career in Veterinary Medicine and selfless service to his community.

Together with his partners, Drs. R.D. Brown and R.A. Culpepper, Dr. Parker operated seven veterinary hospitals over his career, to include the Alamo Dog and Cat Hospital that was recognized in 2009 as a Heritage Hospital being the oldest continuously operating small animal private practice in Texas History. Dr. Parker was a pioneer in the practice of veterinary medicine that included serving as President of the Bexar County Veterinary Medical Association, Texas Veterinary Medical Associations, and the Texas State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners. His mentorship to countless veterinarians and his compassionate care for his clients are what will be remembered the most.

Dr. Parker extended his compassion and selfless service to those he served in his veterinary practice, to public service for his fellow citizens in San Antonio. As a candidate for the Good Government League, Dr. Parker was elected four times to the San Antonio City Council from 1961 to 1968, a pivotal time in San Antonio's history where he helped chart a trajectory for economic growth and opportunity that is still visible today. His other civic duties included appointments on the San Antonio Health Advisory Board, and as a trustee on the San Antonio Transit System and the Texas Municipal Retirement System. He also supported schools and civic organizations throughout the south and southeast side of San Antonio.

Dr. Parker was an avid golfer and supporter of Texas A&M University who enjoyed life in a way that brought happiness to many people.

He is survived by two children, six grandchildren, and eight great grandchildren. His son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Gerald W Parker, Jr. and Denise Sonnen Parker reside in Bryan, Texas. His daughter and her husband, Anne Parker Orrell and Dr. Ronald Jay Orrell live in College Station, Texas.

He is also survived by two stepchildren and extended family, Cal and Cheri Groom and Barbara and Charles Hackney; and their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He will be remembered by his two dear friends Jo Ann Wood and Ruth Millsap.

The family will receive friends at Porter Loring North from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, February 7th, 2014.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE

SATURDAY

FEBRUARY 8, 2014

10:00 A.M.

SUNSET MEMORIAL PARK

1701 AUSTIN HIGHWAY

In lieu of flowers, the family request donations for the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in honor of Dr. Parker. Checks should be made payable to Texas A&M University Foundation with notation of memorial to Dr. Gerald Parker. Mail to Dean's Office, College of Veterinary Medicine, TAMU, College Station, Texas 77843-4461, Attention Dr. O.J. Woytek