Jim had a passion for everything that he did. He served honorably in the US Navy on several ships as a machinist mate. He loved his family and enjoyed helping them whenever in need. Jim enjoyed fishing, golfing, hunting, gardening, woodworking, and serving his church. He served as an active member of the American Legion Post #32, Destroyer Escort Sailors Association, and Tin Can Sailors supporting the restoration of the USS Slater and USS Edson. He was very proud of Motor City Heating and Cooling which he founded.
Jim is survived by his wife, Sue Parker; sons James (Marianne) Parker; Michael (Beth Ann) Parker; Joseph (Maureen) Parker; Daniel (Nancy) Parker; John (Beth) McLaughlin; Jeff (Kendra) McLaughlin; daughters Vicki Parker and Jeanine (Jack) Parks; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; sisters Mary Souther and Bessie Thrift.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents Leroy and Donie Mae Parker; brothers Paul, George and Kenneth Parker.
A visitation for Jim will be held Tuesday, May 8, 2018 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Harry J Will Funeral Homes, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, Michigan. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at 10:00 AM at Harry J Will Funeral Homes.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jim's memory may be made to The Lakes Community Church, 1600 Oakley Park Rd, Commerce Charter Twp, Michigan 48390; and Destroyer Escort Historical Museum, Broadway and Quay, Albany, New York 12202, http://www.ussslater.org/underconstruction.html#.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.harryjwillfuneralhome.com for the Parker family.
