William F Parker

Born Dec. 12, 1947 in Peoria to William O. and Geraldine I. (Barnes) Parker, he married Barbara Blair Coon on May 9, 1990 in Pekin.

Surviving are his wife; 1 son, Jarret Parker of Peoria; 3 step-sons, Tracy (Rose) Baer of Minonk, Brent Baer of Peoria, and Troy (Julie) Coon of Manito; 1 step-daughter, Melissa (Jay) Baer-Adams of Morton; 4 step-grandchildren; 1 brother, Kenneth L. (Judy) Parker of Metamora; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

He had worked in maintenance and grounds keeping at Glendale Memorial Gardens, Swan Lake Memory Gardens, and Hillcrest Memory Gardens from 1998 to 2007.

Bill served in the U.S. Army as a medic in Viet Nam and in transportation during Operation Desert Storm.  He was awarded the Purple Heart for his service in Viet Nam.  He was a member of the George Maple Memorial Amvets post # 235 in Pekin. 

He enjoyed bowling, fishing, watching NASCAR races, and pitching in a fast pitch softball league.

Bill enjoyed spending quality time with his family.

His funeral will be at 3 p.m., Saturday, February 13, 2010 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin chapel.  Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the funeral.  Cremation will be accorded following the service. Military rites will be provided by the U.S. Army and the Tazewell Area Ceremonial Team.

Memorial contributions may be made to his family.