Wayne Parker

(From Parker Mortuary)

Wayne L. Parker, age 94, formerly of Joplin, passed away on Wednesday, April 8, 2015 in Sylvania, Ohio after a lengthy illness.

Wayne was born on March 11, 1921 in Joplin, son of the late Thomas Parker and Georgia Morgan Parker. In addition to his parents, Wayne was preceded in death by his wife of over 63 years, Doloris Anderson Parker who died on May 18, 2004, and his son, Roger Parker who passed away on March 26, 2015.

He joined the Civilian Conservation Corps at the age of 17 prior to enlisting in the United States Army during World War II. He served with the Signal Corp in Belgium and France. He received five bronze stars, a purple heart, and a good conduct medal for his service. Wayne also helped decode a message that lead to sinking an enemy submarine off the coast of Florida.

His passion was hunting and fishing. Wayne worked for GM for over 30 years before retiring. He was an elder and deacon for more than 40 years with the Christian Church; serving Eastside Christian Church in Independence, Missouri, Northland Christian Church of North Kansas City. Survivors include his daughters, Bernadette Amisano and husband Albert of Russell Springs, Kentucky, Lucette Jones and husband Fred of Toledo, Ohio; grandchildren, Sarah Issa, Dylan Parker, and Lindsey Parker of Independence, Missouri, Erika Billips of Columbus, Ohio, and Sean Jones of Toledo, Ohio. Funeral services were held Tuesday, April 14, 2015 in Parker Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Luke Coles officiating.