Randy Parker Obituary

Randy Parker attended Cuyahoga Falls High School in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. View the obituary, post a memory, or share a photo about Randy Parker.

Graduation Year	Class of 1977
Date of Passing	Sep 11, 2006
About	Akron Beacon Journal / September 24, 2006 Randy Joe Parker, 47, went to be with the Lord on Sept. 11, 2006, in Sherman Oaks, Calif., while awaiting a liver transplant. He was ill for six months. Randy will be sadly missed by his loving parents, Joseph and Juanita Parker and his grandfather, Paul Strotman, all of Cuyahoga Falls; and by his wife, Kathleen Merrill of Sherman Oaks. They will fondly remember his intelligence, his musical ability, his loving nature, and his sharp wit. Randy was born in Akron on July 24, 1959. He was a graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School (1977) and of Kent State University, where he was named Jazz Musician of the Year in 1981. Driven by his intense love of music and his treasured trumpet, Randy moved to California in 1982 to pursue his dream of a career in the music business. He founded and ran Parker Music Group. Randy's first professional trumpet performance was with the Cathedral of Tomorrow orchestra; his first performance in California was at the Crystal Cathedral. Just prior to his death, Randy was preparing to release his first CD. Another of Randy's active loves was the Aquarium of the Pacific. He was a generous contributor, and a plaque hangs there, commemorating his volunteer activities. A private service was held in Sherman Oaks. The Rev. Garth Gilliam of the United Methodist Church in Sherman Oaks, who had supported and counseled Randy during his illness, officiated and guided Joe and Juanita through this difficult time. Rev. Gilliam was able to reassure the parents that Randy is indeed at peace with the Lord.