A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, May 3, 2019 at Harmony Vineyard Church, 600 NE 46th St, Kansas City, MO. A visitation will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at DW Newcomer’s White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO.
She was born in Fort Leavenworth, KS to Col. Edward Francis and Virginia (Holtzapple) Gadler. She was raised in St Joseph, MO where she graduated from Lafayette High School. She attended Northwest Missouri State University where she received her degree in Biology and Chemistry. She went on to have a successful career in medical technology, working and teaching in various labs in the Kansas City area. She was a distinguished technician, receiving many medical awards, as well as Humanitarian of the Year.
She loved her successful career, but what brought her the most joy was her family. She married the love of her life, Steve Parker on March 23, 1973. In addition to her husband, she is survived by two daughters, Angela (David) and Kelly (JW), who were the lights of her life. She is also survived by her precious grandchildren, Noah, Angelina, Natalie Rose, Avery, Jackson, Sawyer, and Jimmy. Other survivors include many family members, friends, and especially her best friend of 66 years, Ronda Chaney.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved aunt Martha “Mimi” Holtzapple.
The family suggests memorial contributions to Three Rivers Hospice, 700 Branch St. Suite #4, Platte City, MO 64079.
The family would especially like to thank the 6th and 11th floor nurses at North Kansas City Hospital, everyone at New Mark Care Facility, and her wonderful hospice nurses, Jessica and Marsha. A very special thanks to her dear friend and physician, Dr. Mark E. Gordon.
“Ma we will miss your beautiful, mischievous smile, the twinkle in your eyes, and your warm soft hugs and heart”
