James Gregory Parker

James Gregory Parker was born March 29, 1951 to James H. And Mary Parker in Eugene, Oregon. Jim passed away suddenly at home in Shelby on January 15, 2023. He was the firstborn of ten children. He grew up in Shelby, attending St. William’s Catholic Grade School and Shelby High School. He attended Carroll College until enlisting in the U.S. Air Force where he worked as a surveyor. He attended Gonzaga University on the GI Bill, then enlisted in the Navy where he worked in the postal service. He returned to Shelby after the Navy and lived there for the remainder of his life.

Jim had an aptitude for the sciences, enjoyed astronomy, electronics, and sociology. He loved visits from his family and trips to Canada and loved spending time with his nieces and nephews. He always expressed concern for our safety in travels. He loved receiving packages and baked goodies from family members. Jim was a loving son, brother, and uncle; very humble and kindhearted. He was a devout Christian and Catholic, and as a young adult he contemplated joining the priesthood. Jimmy had a heartwarming smile and a grateful spirit. He was a living example of the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Parker, and his sister, Mary Anne Hansen. He is survived by his father, James H. Parker; siblings, Douglas Parker, Joanie (Rock) Svennungsen, Barbara Parker, Jeanne (Justin) Maloney, Jane (Dwight) O’Hara, Debbie Parker, Patty (Andrew) Cook, Karen (Eric) Wandel; and many nieces and nephews.

A rosary will be held at St. William’s Catholic Church in Shelby Friday January 20th at 7 p.m. Funeral mass will be Saturday January 21st at 10 a.m. at St. William’s Church with burial and luncheon to follow.

Jimmy will be greatly missed by his family and friends; our loss is heaven’s gain.