Robert A. Parker of Tempe, AZ died suddenly on Monday, January 2, 2023 at the age of 79. Bob was born in Elwood, IN to Betty Jane Gift and Lester Parker. Before he reached his teen years, Bob moved to Arizona with his father where they farmed in Maricopa and he perfected his trench digging skills. Bob graduated from North High School in Phoenix, AZ and entered the machinist trade in his early years, eventually retiring from Allied Signal/Honeywell after 20 years. Bob combined his fabrication skills and his love for race cars by modifying Indy Flyer wagons into masterpieces he created for celebrities, charities and his beloved grandchildren. He had a large Indy 500 racing family and he and his Wicked Wagons will be missed for years to come. Bob lived his life doing what he loved and recruiting others along the way, including running, a passion he enjoyed even on the day he passed, puttering in his garden, perfecting his green backyard lawn and generally just living his best life as as an “old guy.” He was truly the glue that held his large blended family together and is and will be missed by each and every one of them.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents and sister Patricia Ann Eidson, Phoenix, AZ. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years Patricia Lou Baker Parker, Tempe, AZ, sister Dawn Carraway, Spokane, WA, sons Greg Parker, Scottsdale, AZ, Tom Parker, Phoenix, AZ, daughters Terry Rodriguez, Phoenix, AZ, JoAnne Donatella, Pensacola, FL, Patti Donatella, Englewood, NJ, Eileen Donatella, Phoenix, AZ, 12 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren.
A celebration of Bob's life will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Green Acres, 401 N Hayden, Scottsdale, AZ.
In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Sam Schmidt Paralysis Foundation. 701 E. Bridger Avenue, Suite 150, Las Vegas, NV 89101, (702) 463-2940, [email protected]. https://www.conquerparalysisnow.org/donate/
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.greenacresmortuary.net for the Parker family.
