Norm-Parker-Obituary

Norm Parker

Obituary

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) — Former longtime Iowa defensive coordinator Norm Parker has died. He was 72.

School spokesman Steve Roe told The Associated Press that Parker died early Monday at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. A cause of death was not released.

"Norm played a major and key role in any on the field success we experienced during his 13 years as our defensive coordinator," Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz said. "More important and valuable, is the strong and positive impact that he had on our players, staff, support staff and fans — everyone he interfaced with during his 15 years in Iowa. Norm was an excellent football coach. Beyond that, he was a tremendous spouse, father and cherished friend to many."

Parker began his college coaching career in 1968. He made stops at Wake Forest, Minnesota, Illinois, East Carolina, Michigan State and Vanderbilt. He spent his last 13 seasons at Iowa, where he developed a reputation as one of the country's top coordinators.

Parker's schemes were rarely flashy and often defined by a "bend but don't break" style of play. But they usually worked, and the Hawkeyes identity was tied to Parker's fundamentally sound defenses. The Hawkeyes finished in the top 10 nationally in scoring defense in 2008, 2009 and 2010 under Parker, who retired following the 2011 season.

Iowa also finished in the top 10 in rushing defense five times during Parker's tenure.

Parker battled health problems late in his tenure at Iowa. He had his foot amputated in the fall of 2010 because of diabetes and spent most of the season in rehabilitation and away from the team.

Parker's easygoing manner and no-nonsense approach to football made him a favorite among Hawkeyes fans, and he was often seen at Iowa's football facility and Kinnick Stadium following his retirement.

"Norm Parker was one of my all-time favorite people and coaches," Iowa athletic director Gary Barta said. "He was a brilliant defensive coordinator, and his players loved him. He knew how to win football games. But more importantly, he knew how to make you feel good and to laugh. He will truly be missed."

Parker was born in Hazel Park, Mich., and played at Eastern Michigan, where he began a 45-year collegiate coaching career in 1968.

Parker is survived by his wife, Linda, children Chelly, Joyce, Jim and Suzy, and six grandchildren. Funeral services were pending in Michigan for Parker, and a memorial service will be held in Iowa City at a later date.

LUKE MEREDITH, AP Sports Writer




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I WILL REMEMBER

JERRY BOKINA

James 4:8 draw close to God and he will draw close to you.

Norm was also a great high school classmate and will be missed by all that knew him......Dave Newbery

Norm Parker...a great man and a great coach. I had the honor of being a teammate of Norm's at Eastern Michigan University and the privilege of coaching with him at St. John's High School in Ypsilanti. Norm was an outstanding leader, even at a young age. We had some special athletes to coach and Norm never let the rest of the coaches forget how fortunate we were to be coaching these great kids. Norm was always proud of his time at St. John's High School. It served as a launch to an amazing...

A friend from long, long ago. May all the wonderful memories bring your family comfort during this difficult time.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Linda and the entire family.

Coach Parker was a great Coach and a Great man, from whom I learn much about both football and life. Truly a tough gentleman which is rear in our society.

One of the most humble and respected men I ever met. RIP my friend...I'm comforted knowing your now with your best friend Jeff!

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.