William Gerard Parker

He is survived by his wife Karen, children: Benjamin (Lindsay) Parker, Sarah (Kyle) Keith, Brenda (Matt) Clifford, Dominic (Lora) Parker, Emily (Nathan) Neiman, Elizabeth (David) Berkemeier, Anna (Roger) Chapman, Maureen (Joel) Starrak, Monica (Matthew) Poff, Timothy Parker, and Adam (Samantha) Parker, and 36 grandchildren.

Faith and charity were at the center of Bill’s life. He was an active parishioner at St. Mary’s, Holy Cross, and Resurrection. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus, served on many parish boards, and was committed to spreading devotion to St. Joseph. Bill befriended the homeless and poor, frequently giving them rides, meals, and money. Bill and Karen were instrumental in rebuilding Shared Pregnancy, an organization that supports women in crisis pregnancies.

Bill will also be remembered for his beautiful voice. He sang regularly at mass, weddings, funerals, retirement parties or any time he could find a microphone. He used his wonderful gift that touched so many family and friends. He entertained with impersonations of Elvis and Sinatra. He’s probably singing “I did it my way” now.

Bill worked to maintain close relationships with his many siblings, children and grandchildren. He loved playing games and attending grandchildren’s sporting events. He was committed to yearly family vacations where laughter and competition were the mainstay. He was the creative force behind elaborate birthday pranks and in-law initiations. His Irish impersonations were second to none.

Most recently he joined his eldest son Ben appraising real estate, where his productivity will be hard to replace. Prior to that he worked for 25 years at the State of Michigan’s Housing Development Authority while running Billy Gerard’s Karaoke, a successful DJ startup. Throughout his career he worked with integrity and was a valued colleague who never ran out of jokes to share.

Bill will be remembered for his love of God, his sharp wit, warm voice, and intense competitive nature. His legacy lives on with his vast network of friends and family who share his values and deep appreciation of life and freedom.

A visitation will be held from 1-4pm with a rosary prayed at 3:15pm on Sunday, January 30, 2022 at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home (900 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 48912). On Monday, January 31 there will be a visitation at 9am until the funeral liturgy at 10am at St. Mary’s Cathedral (219 Seymour Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933). Burial will take place at Gunnisonville Cemetery and a celebratory luncheon will follow at St. Mary’s Parish Hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shared Pregnancy or St. Mary’s Cathedral.

St. Mary's Cathedral

https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Giving/smc

Shared Pregnancy

https://sharedpregnancy.org/donate/

To leave a cherished memory or words of sympathy for the family please visit www.grlansing.com.