David M. Parker

David M. Parker died Tuesday, January 16, 2018. He was born in 1936, and was raised in a small rural Oregon town in the Willamette Valley. He moved to Portland for college, where he met his wife Judith. In 1985 they came to Vashon Island with their children Christine Lorelle and Bradley.

David’s professional life as a Mechanical Engineer included work with Wagner Mining, Research and Development with Freightliner Corp, teaching at Portland State University, and the development of a pipe straightener at Alaskan Brass and Copper.

David was very involved in his children’s activities. In four years he missed only one of Bradley’s wrestling matches, including tournaments. He often got up before dawn to take Christine and her horse to Pony Club events.

His activities included the Vashon Computer Club, CERT, the Rotary Club, and the Museum of Flight. He also worked with the Vashon Park District to develop the Paradise Ridge Equestrian Park.

David was a kind, gentle, humble, and contented man. Despite the increasing difficulty of his last three years, his grace and humor remained. Above all he loved his family, and he found his greatest pleasure in helping others.

David’s life was a gift and an inspiration to all of us. He leaves his family with

precious memories of a good and honorable man, and a legacy of love.

There will be a celebration of David’s life later in the year.