David Milton Parker was born October 23, 1931 in Peoria IL, to J.C. and Leona (Shreve) Parker and departed this life on April 29, 2014. David was a graduate of Peoria public schools, an Eagle Scout and a member of First United Methodist Church in Peoria. He served in the United States Army for two years and was honorably discharged at the rank of Corporal. David was a graduate of Purdue University (Sigma Phi Epsilon) with a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering. He was a Certified Professional Engineer. While attending Purdue he met and married his wife of 59 years, Joan (Kopperud). David and Joan spent most of their married life in Independence, KS having moved to Tulsa, OK to be close to family as their health declined. David was retired from the M-E-C Company of Neodesha, KS where he was employed for 54 years, serving as President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board of Directors for 47 of those years. David served as Chairman Emeritus until his death.

Dave always considered himself blessed to have a career he loved. His other joys in life included his pets, hunting, reading, gardening, traveling, sports (especially the Kansas City Chiefs, the St. Louis Cardinals and his grandchildren's sporting events), fishing trips to Alaska with his son and grandsons and family vacations to Hawaii. David was preceded in death by his parents and infant sister, Jean Louise. He is survived by his beloved wife Joan; three children, Stephen (Monica) Parker of Kansas City, MO, Pam (Ed) Walden of Tulsa, OK, Lynn (John) Lichtenfeld of Grapevine, TX; four grandchildren and two great granddaughters. The family suggests honoring David's memory with contributions to the memorial fund at First Presbyterian Church, Independence, KS. Funeral arrangements are as follows: Visitation, Moore's Southlawn, Tulsa, OK, Monday, May 5, 12:30-1:45PM, funeral services immediately following at 2:00; interment at Rose Hill Cemetery.

Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233 share memories at www.moorefuneral.com