Gerald Parker, 93

Gerald “Jerry” Parker was born in Kalispell on Aug.1, 1930. He passed away, surrounded by family, on Jan.14, 2024. 

Jerry was a lifelong resident of the Flathead Valley and resided in Bigfork. He graduated from Echo Grade School and Bigfork High School. Jerry married the love of his life, Shirley Mellem, on July 11, 1953. They celebrated 61 years of marriage until Shirley’s passing in 2015. Jerry was a farmer and co-owned a farm with his brother Hugh Parker. He also worked at local plywood mills for several years. Later in life, Jerry was an insurance agent and served as a president of Flathead Farmers Mutual Insurance. Jerry was a Gideon. He was also a member of Central Bible Church and then Swan Chapel for many years. Some of his kids and grandkids affectionately called Jerry the “Energizer Bunny” because he was always busy and on the go.

Jerry is survived by his sons Terry Parker and Wesley Parker, and daughter Laurie Johnson; grandchildren Ben Johnson, Kathrin Cochran, Megan Johnson, Charles Parker, Adam Parker, Stephanie Joiner, Michael Parker, and Kyle Parker; and great-grandchildren Morgan Cochran, Ashley Cochran, Lyra Johnson, Rhona Johnson, Holden Parker, Judd Parker, Lennox Parker, Sutton Parker, Sophia Parker, and Levi Joiner.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife Shirley Parker; his parents H. Sam Parker and Mabel Parker; his brother Hugh Parker; and his sister Marcia Nelson. 

A celebration of life will be held on Jan. 27, 2024, from noon to 3 p.m. at Easthaven Baptist Church, 2010 Whitefish Stage Road, Kalispell, Montana 59901.

Memorials are suggested to Gideons International or a charity of your choice.