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Parker Fairbourne Bradford

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Brigham Young University

Parker Bradford Obituary

Parker Fairbourne Bradford 1989 ~ 2007 "I'll never forget your amazing strength and character." "You have a way of making all those around you shine." "You made an impact on everyone you met." "We all know how much you had to give and gave." These comments, posted by friends to an online memorial for Parker Fairbourne Bradford shortly after his death on July 21, 2007, typify the feelings of those who were blessed to know him during his 18 short but densely rich years on earth. He offered up his life as he had lived it, showing loyal friendship as he struggled to save a friend during a swimming accident near Rexburg, ID. He passed away shortly thereafter, surrounded by his family. Parker was born on February 20, 1989 in Provo, Utah, where his parents, Randall James Bradford and Melissa Dalton Bradford, were graduate students at Brigham Young University. He attended elementary school in Norway, the land of his forefathers, and was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Oslo Sandvika Ward. He later completed his primary education at the American School of Paris (ASP), where he was a dedicated student, athlete and musician. Parker helped to lead both the ASP varsity volleyball and basketball teams to European high school championships in 2006-07. While Parker often delighted his friends and family with improvised songs in their honor on the piano, he had precocious gifts as a drummer. One of his favorite activities in recent years was to lend his skills on the giant African "Djembe" drum to impromptu, crowd-forming jam sessions with his French and North African friends on the bridges and plazas of Paris, the city of which Parker once said, "I want to come back after I finish university studies to live out my life here." "You genuinely cared about those around you." "You never lost hope in anyone and always knew how to support others" "U were one of the first to talk to me when I came to ASP. I was so lonely the first day, but you made me so happy." "You had the best brother-sister relationship I've seen." His peers' regard for him as a radiant, sincere and charismatic leader kept Parker at the forefront of social activity. But Parker defied convention by constantly reaching out to, comforting and including friends from all social spheres. His greatest treasures of kindness, however, were reserved for his younger sister, Claire, his younger brother, Dalton, and youngest brother Luc, on whom Parker's influence will be strong, positive, and eternal. "I'll never forget how much u strengthened everyone around u." "u always stood up for what you believed in and never compromised your values" "You are the only person I know that can go to a bar, not drink alcohol, and rock out more than the rest of us." Parker was an enthusiastically active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and an committed disciple of Jesus Christ. He earned his Duty to God award and was a four-year seminary graduate, despite being at times the only young adult from his local congregations engaged in these pursuits. He was recently ordained an Elder in the Melchizedek Priesthood, and had prepared himself since childhood to serve a full-time Church mission, which he planned to begin following the Fall 2007 semester at Brigham Young University-Idaho. "you were always such a happy person. I always saw you smiling" "the world has lost somebody truly special" "i cant remember one time when you weren't being the person everyone has described." "laughter and beautiful melodies are what accompany your memory" Parker is survived by his parents, Randall & Melissa Bradford, now of Munich, Germany; his siblings, Claire, Dalton and Luc; his grandparents, David and Donna Dalton of Provo; and an extensive extended family as well as innumerable friends literally round the globe, who love him and whom he loved. Our deep sense of loss is balanced by the joy of knowing that Parker was welcomed tenderly into the next life by his grandparents Reed & Shirley Bradford, and that he continues to uplift and inspire our Father's children on the other side, where he will forever "Praise the Lord with the clash of cymbals."(Psalm 150) Funeral services for Parker Fairbourne Bradford will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 28, 2007 at the Grandview South Stake Center of the LDS Church, 1122 N. Grand Ave., Provo, UT. Friends may call that morning at the church from 9:00-10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made in Parker's memory and in honor of his great love of music to a perpetual music scholarship fund at BYU-Idaho. To make a donation, please call 1-800-227-4257 or visit www.ldsphilanthropies.org specifically mentioning Parker's name.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune from Jul. 26 to Jul. 27, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Parker Bradford

80 Entries

James Cannon Johnston

October 26, 2015

Melissa,
My wife Mary and I heard you speak in Cambridge, Massachusetts on Feb 7, 2014. It meant a lot to both of us. Six weeks later our son David was diagnosed with leukemia and on Aug 12, 2015 he died, at age 27.
We have thought often of you, especially now that we are in the long emptiness, so different from the intensity of his illness, funeral, and burial. I started to read "On Loss and Living Onward" Saturday night. It hurt, probably a hurt I need to feel more of. Thank you.
I revived this guest book for another year. I hope this gesture of solidarity with you is welcome.

Alex Vounatsos

August 24, 2007

To Parker F. Bradford,
Your death was very heroic and good natured, true essence of your natural behavior.
You were always warm to both friends and foreigners, and during my first months at the American School of Paris you always protected me and enlarged my social circle. Your presence will be missed by all.
My dearest condoleances to your family.
Rest in peace my friend,
See you in the next life.
Alexandre, Michel, Martine, Ines, Maxime Vounatsos

Victoire & Christophe Désirat

August 24, 2007

Dear Melissa, Dear Randall

Hearing that special friends have lost their child is unspeakably difficult to bear.

There is no word to express our grief, neither in English nor in French.

Undoubtedly, Parker had a mission to those who had encountered him during his life: shining over them the Lord’s loving presence. He owes it to you because you succeeded as good and eternal parents.

We are honoured to have met your son.

With our humble love,

Connie Reid

August 22, 2007

Melissa, Randall and family,
I love Parker and there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of him. He always brighten my days and I shall miss him evey day. Chris is off at Texas AM and I know that Parker is with him. Know that you both were so important to him. He loved and respected both of you. Melissa, you were his safe place and Randall you were his hero. He loved you both totally and compeletly. He was one of the joys of us living in Paris.
Love and prayers,
Connie

Rut Hedemark Sterri

August 22, 2007

Dear Melissa & Randal,
We were on vacation, in our boat down the south coast of Norway, when we heard about the accident. We immediately prayed together and you where in our thoughts all day. It was with great sorrow we received the news the next day, that Parker diden't make it.
When we met Parker last Summer we could tell that he was a very handsome, young man, with many, great plans for the future, a son you should be very proud of. You are still in our thoughts and we think about the good memories we had together when you lived in Asker. Please let us know if there is anything we can do.

Kjærlig hilsen Eivind, Rut, Camilla, Benedicte, Veronica og Patrick.

Mel Marquez

August 12, 2007

I first saw Parker in 8th Grade, as i was invited to replace a saxophone player in the Upper School Jazz Band. I was immediately amazed by his skill, and felt like we shared something deeper than friendship. It was like i found someone who was like me in many ways, both his humor, and the natural need and feel for music as me. I've really had a lot of good times with parker in these 2 years, and i remember, when i saw him for the last time, we exchanged emails, promising that i'd invite him over for jams with the people at the jazz school i'll be going to. It was a huge shock to me when i was told of his passing, and it feels like i lost a piece of myself. All my support to the Bradford family. Rest in peace parker, you'll be in my heart forever.

Anonymous

August 10, 2007

Dear Bradford family,
I have never met or even heard of your family, but I happened to stumble upon the story of Parker. What a tremendos young man he sounds like. I cannot imagine what you are going through, but please know that tragedies like this do not go unnoticed or ungrieved. The fact that this story has reached me means that Parker has touched and will touch many lives throughout the years. His is a name I will remember.

Natalie Frederic

August 8, 2007

To the Bradford Family, (especially to Luc and Dalton)--

Words are not enough to express the feeling I had when I learned about your family's loss and Parker's untimely and unlikely passing. My heart as well as the Paris Ward is still heavy with this tragic news. But I would just like to impress along with all the others... how much we care for your family and say to Dalton and Luc, whom I taught in Primary in 2006, what fine boys they are and shining examples of their older brothers, Parker and Jesus Christ. I did not have the chance to ever know or speak to Parker but was tremendously touched by his farewell talk on that beautiful Sunday morning. I still remember his gait and gesture as he talked and the way he elegantly served the sacrement among the congregation, and almost cannot believe that this is true. I was equally in awe of Sister Bradford as she expressed in French the light that crowned their home in Paris. I thoroughly enjoyed teaching Dalton and Luc in Primary and for want of better words, hope they know that they are well-loved and in our prayers, as is your whole family.

All the best in this whole wide world,

Sincerely,

Anna Clark

August 7, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I met Parker once, and we exchanged emails often. He was an amazing young man, and a hero. From just looking at his myspace and facebook pages you realise how much of a friend and example he was to so many people. I feel privileged to have met Parker, and Im saddened by the news of his passing. People can surely find comfort at this time by just thinking about the great life that Parker led and how happy he is now.

Inger S. Andersen

August 6, 2007

Dear Melissa, Randall, Claire, Dalton and Luc

I wish to express my deepest sympathy with you from my familiy and myself regarding Parker's tradgic accident.
My strongest memory of Parker is his baptism where he had invited his whole class. It was a wonderful meeting and I remember the spirit was strong and that he was a wonderful excample that day.
Now that he has returned to our heavenly Father our prayers are with you in hoping you will find peace and comfort in Him and in jouful memories of Parker.

With love

Christina White

August 6, 2007

Dearest Bradford Family,

I know I've probably said this all before but I guess I'll just repeat myself. First of all, I am so sorry for your tragic loss. There aren't even words that can express my deep pain and sorrow for your family. Also my heart goes out to all his relatives, friends and even those who didn't have the honor of knowing him.

It's no secret how amazing your son was ... even those who only saw him on the stage or the basketball court could see how gifted and kind he was. It sometimes seemed unfair -he had it all. By all I don't just mean talents such as basketball, drumming, intelligence or social skills. He had a heart a heart of gold. He truely cared about everyone. He had such strong morals which is rare at our age. He had no problem standing up for what he believed in.

As a close friend, I saw him going through all the difficulties of being a teen and trying to figure out who he was. At first, he had a hard time with it, but even then he was always positive and smiling. Over our four years of being close friends through high school, he grew comfortable in his own skin and proud of who he was (as he should have). It seemed, to me, by the end of his senior year he figured it out. He went from a boy, trying figure out his way in life, to a man, who was confident and content with himself.

When you lose someone it makes you look back and reflect on your relationship with them. Looking back on the last four, and most wonderful, years of my life I must say that Parker helped me grow up. He was my constant friend and I knew I always had him. If I was upset the first person I'd call was Parker, even if we were in a fight. I also realized something else, Parker was friend's with people from all different groups. This dawned on me at the viewing. A few of the BYU girls came up to the ASP group and at the end of their conversation one of them said, "I hope you all stay tight." Well I thought, these aren't really the people I was close friends with, we all hung out sometimes and were friendly. We were friends because of Parker. He brought all different types of people together. He united and included EVERYONE. That is an amazing characteristic to have. Who knew one person could have so much love in their heart?

To sum up my now essay, I'd like to say thank you. To the Bradford family for raising such an amazing person and one of the very best friends I will ever have. You raised him to be the kind, wholesome and good man that he was. Also for their unending kindness and generocity through the last four years. I'd also like to say thank you to all his relatives who were so kind and welcoming to all us Paris friends in Utah. And finally, I'd like to say thank you to Parker. My best friend of four years who was the one person who always made me feel like I mattered and was needed.

You have been my inspiration, my rock and dearest friend. I know you are with me everywhere I go. I love you and miss you. Shine down on all of us.

Kelly Albers

August 6, 2007

Dear Bradford Family,
We have waited until now to express our deepest sympathy, as our words just simply failed us at a time like this. Sudden tragedies stop us short,and we wonder how we can live'normally' after such news.
We remember Parker as very remarkable young man. He was always confident, whether he was "drumming on the stage",or "taking it to the hoop in basketball". He truly lived his life to the fullest!
We have only the fondest of memories of Parker's,and your family's friendship while we lived in Paris and attended ASP. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you in the days ahead.

THE ALBERS FAMILY
Dave,Kelly,Lexie,and A.J.
(formerly of ASP)

Martine Rassi

August 6, 2007

Dear All
Please receive our deepest condolences my family and I feel very sorry for this terrible loss we will carry his memory in our prays.
Rassi Family

Thomas Løvenskiold

August 5, 2007

Dear Randall & Melissa, Claire, Dalton and Luc.

Please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of Parker whom we still remember as a playful healthy happy little boy years ago in Norway.

We wish you all the strength you may need to choose joy over grief in living the rest of your lives.

Loving hugs from Karsten, Chantal, Aleksandra, Magali & Thomas

August 5, 2007

Tu restera vivant dans l'esprit de Paris. Je t'y ressentirai et comme ca je te connais.

Deborah Gonzalez

August 3, 2007

Dear Dalton and Bradford Families, With sincere sympathy we write to you today to be sure that you know we are thinking of you during this time of sorrow. Your loss is immeasurable. We hope that with the love of family and friends around you that the hurdles of each day will soon be low enough for you to cross on your own.
With Caring Thoughts, The Gonzalez Family (formerly of ASP)

Gudrun Kalt

August 3, 2007

We were deeply affected when we heard the news of the untimely death of Parker. Unfortunately we never had the opportunity to meet him, but the many wonderful words and compliments about his life, gave us a clear picture of this talented, amiable and vigorous young man, whose future was so promising.
Knowing, that our Heavenly Father has welcomed this beautiful and unselfish son and grandson of yours
with open arms, will give you the necessary peace.
We are thankful for the time, many years ago, we were able to spend with the Dalton Family.
Gudrun Kalt and Children

Ashley Kula

August 1, 2007

Parker.

You meant so much to so many people. You were an amazing volleyball and basketball player and you really were amazing at playing drums. While you were here, I don't think you knew just how much you influenced everybody around you. You were always willing to talk to somebody who needed to talk, or to lend a shoulder to cry on, or to just laugh and smile and chill with. I love you and miss you so much. I never thought it was humanly possible to cry or miss somebody this much! You're my hero!

To the Bradford family:
I love you guys! You guys are forever in heart and in my thoughts. Remember: MI CASA ES SU CASA!

Kristi Burningham - Keck

August 1, 2007

I am so sorry - Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Love Kristi

RUBEN Gomez

August 1, 2007

My Sincerest sympathies.

mikyla powell

August 1, 2007

I only knew you for a short time, but it was the greatest of my life!

Rae Ann Brannon Warner

July 31, 2007

Dear Dalton and Bradford families,
I am so saddened to hear of your loss. You are in my heart and in my prayers. I wish I could have known your sweet Parker--it sounds like he was a wonderful young man, and that he already had done much missionary work through his fine example.
Love, Rae Ann Warner

Yoonji Woo

July 30, 2007

Parker was amazing in everything, especially drumming. I still can't forget the first time I saw Parker play the drums for the school Jazz Band. I was mesmerized, and so were my parents. We were extremely sorry to hear of his untimely death. We believe that he will be protected by God in heaven, for all the good things he's done on earth.

Michael "BIG MIKE" Bruetsch

July 30, 2007

We were the volley ball and basketball champs, and Parker was one of my best friends at the american school of paris.
I have never met anyone like Parker and during school we would eat lunch just about everyday talking about the next game or the next time we could rock out to his drumming.
Parker was one of my best friends and being a new student in paris he showed me around and even on day one you could tell he was just one of those people that no matter where you end up in life he would be there for you and would do his best to make everything ok.

Joen Schleisman

July 30, 2007

Our deepest, saddest condolences to you on the loss of a truly remarkable young man. To know Parker was to love Parker. He was an exceptional person, much admired by all who met him. He always had a smile for everyone, and he was genuine of heart. We shall miss him terribly, including the love of music he shared with Nicolette.

Carolyn Warner Taylor

July 30, 2007

Dear Randy and Melissa,

I am so sorry to hear about your son. I read through this guestbook and am so impressed with the many comments that have been made from all over the world. Parker must have been an amazing person.

July 29, 2007

Randy, Melissa,

Our condolences to you and your family during this painful time. Parker sounds like he was an outstanding young man, not unlike what I remember both of you to be during PHS and BYU days.

God bless.

David & Cheryl Pace

Thomas Røsaker

July 29, 2007

I used to babysit Parker & Co back in Oslo, Norway. Parker was so full of energy at that time:)
Im sorry that Parker left us so early. He would make a great missionary - fit for the country of Norway.
I am so sorry for the pain and sorrow you are going through right now. May Gods loving arms be around you and comfort you. Love Thomas

Stephanie Torrealba

July 29, 2007

i will always remember Parker and hope to feel him near always. i keep all in my prayers.
i will never forget this family.

much love.

Chris Chater

July 28, 2007

As Parker's music teacher from fourth grade I was immediately impressed by his vitality, his delight in singing and his natural feel for percussion. Over the years these promised grew into the exciting musician he has left us in our memories. His example shows that to be skilled and successful it is still possible to be a good person.

My greatest joy was sharing music gigs with him on two occasions in the past year along with fellow teachers, students, alumni and Melissa. Her voice and Parker's drumming were a strong statement about the meaning of family.

My heart goes out to all his family at this sad time though I know his muisic and its meaning will never lose its beat.

Asheley Madsen Watabe

July 28, 2007

Dear Melissa and family,

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Parker. My deepest sympathies and condolences are with you at this tender time. I have such dear memories of your family and Parker in Paris as a missionary in Versailles with Soeur Entwistle (Davinia). Parker's and your family's influence has touched countless lives all over the world. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. All my love, Asheley Watabe (Soeur Madsen missionary from Versailles 2000)

Heather Barton Marlow

July 28, 2007

Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. My heart aches for your sorrow.

Marlene Thomas

July 28, 2007

Dear Randy and Melissa,
After hearing of this tragedy my heart was filled with so much sadness for you to have such a marvelous son leave in this short time of his life. I thought of so many wonderful times being with the Bradford family living next to us on Aspen Ave. in Provo.
I know that all of my children's hearts are filled with love for you and know that you will always feel blessed to have such a remarkable son as Parker.
Not knowing Parker, I loved reading the comments of others knowing him well. What an amazing, loving, helpful, kind, caring person he was.
Our love to you always.
Marlene Woolf Thomas

Lynne Jakeman

July 28, 2007

Dear Bishop,Donna,Melissa and Randy,
I met Parker a year ago at church;I was very impressed with him.I am so sorry.
Much love,
Lynne Jakeman

Jeremy Turner

July 28, 2007

Dear Melissa, Randall, Claire, and Family,

I am so very sorry for your loss. I feel that god takes those young for a special purpose. I know that Parker is doing something important now up above. I hold this thought tight. As a teacher, he touched my life greatly with his smile, warmth, caring and strength. I am so glad that I had the chance to cross his path in life and become his friend. I will always remember him. My prayers go out to you all during this difficult time.

Mary Jean Lowe

July 28, 2007

Dear Melissa, Randall and children,
Our thoughts and prayers have been with you for many days now. Our children grew up with Parker , and Kelley in particular shared many hours making beautiful music with him. He will forever have a place in our hearts. We share your grief but also your pride in your exceptional son.

Mike and Laura Lenhart

July 28, 2007

Laura and I were shocked and saddened to hear of this tragedy.
Although we hadn’t seen Parker in 13 years we can still distinctly remember him playing with our daughter Kathryn who was his age. On one of our many playtimes and outings together, when we happened to be comparing notes on naming our children, Melissa pointed out how carefully she and Range had selected Parker’s name and how it even passed the “playground” test—a name that simply couldn’t be twisted by mean-spirited children. At that moment Kathryn, who had apparently been listening, walked in on the conversation, and said something to the effect, “what about ‘Porker’”? Melissa was crestfallen—all that planning for naught. Needless to say, from what we have read posted here about Parker’s loyalty to both friends and personal standards, Melissa had no cause for concern.
As parents at heavy times like this, who like the Bradfords, served missions in German speaking areas, we can appreciate the penetrating wisdom of one of Germany’s brightest literary lights, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. We offer these insights, from Goethe to Parker:

~A noble person attracts noble people, and knows how to hold on to them.
~Death is a commingling of eternity with time; in the death of a good man, eternity is seen looking through time.
~Every person above the ordinary has a certain mission that they are called to fulfill.

Daniel & Eileen Bradford

July 28, 2007

My Dear Brother Randge, and My Sister-in-Law Melissa,

There are no words to ever fully convey the depth of feeling and emotion I have this morning, as I prepare to attend my nephew Parker's funeral. I have struggled mightily over the last few days to comprehend the meaning of the loss of this wonderful boy, whom we all loved so dearly. My own son Gregory counts Parker steadfastly as one of his dearest friends as well as cousins. When Rachael left our home to begin BYU, she left this poem in a letter she wrote to us and delivered as she left.

"I Held a Jewel in My Fingers"
by Emily Dickinson

I held a Jewel in my fingers—
And went to sleep—
The day was warm, and winds were prosy—
I said “’Twill keep”—

I woke—and chid my honest fingers,
The Gem was gone—
And now, an Amethyst remembrance
Is all I own—

I hope that you will be able to remember that one day -- that beautiful gem of a son -- will indeed be back in your arms once again. Parker was one of the finest young men I have ever known, and his impact on our family will be lasting and eternal.

We love you dearly,

Your brother, Daniel and Eileen, and family.

Jeff & Terry Dalton

July 27, 2007

Dear Melissa & Randall, David & Donna and families,
We are so very, very sorry for your tremendous loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We pray that you will be comforted by our great and living Savior. "Surely he has borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows..." Mosiah 14:4. All our love.

Yasmine King

July 27, 2007

Dear Bradfrd's,

I've been having a hard time signing the guest book because no matter what I say it wouldn't be enough. Parker was so wonderful, he did so much in his short 18 years of life that people of 101 never accomplish in their entire lives and the way that he's touched my heart is unexplainable. He's done so much for so many people. I don't even think he knew exactly what he did for them. Just by smiling at them and saying hi he changed their whole world, he's so awesome in so many ways. He's gonna be missed greatly. And I only pray that your family will be able to overcome this tragedy. Because he's done so much on this earth that he couldn't possibly do anymore, after saving his friend he had been completely perfect. So perfect that he needed to do no more on this earth, his mission had been completed. And I hope that one day we will meet again. Parker was an amazing kid and I'm grateful and privileged to have been able to call him my friend.
Your family is in my heart and prayers.

Nate and Lori Glazier

July 27, 2007

We are so sorry to hear about Parker's tragic passing. This is a sorrowful reminded of the sweet and eternal importance of the gospel plan. We pray for the Lord's spirit to be with you.

Elayne Clark

July 27, 2007

Dear Melissa and Randy, David and Donna
It is indeed a sad time for your family, and I weep for you. I am so thankful for our Heavenly Father's plan that binds our family members together forever. Parker was such an accomplished young man; it is tragic to lose him.
I sent Katy and Tom a message; they are with a student group studying in Wales this summer. Katy expressed to me her sorrow at your loss. I hope you and your families will find comfort and solace to get through this very difficult time.
Love and sympathy to your family,
Elayne Clark

Daniel Hughes

July 27, 2007

Parker was a great basketball and volleyball player and I am glad to have played against him during ISSTs and otherwise. Those at ASL are sorry for your loss.

Joshua Young

July 27, 2007

Even Though i knew parker was a special individual for 7 years, reading his obituary has shaped my life in a different way. I have never known someone who has stuck to his beliefs so strongly and was a determined achiever. He always made me feel better of myself. Parker, Hope you will remember our laughs and talks. I will always remember every bit of you and may you fly high and freely because now its only God that can judge you. And I know he is proud of his son. Rest in Peace. Miss you. your black brother JY-N

Eric Huntsman

July 27, 2007

Melissa and Rand,

Our hearts and prayers are with you and your entire family.

Love, Eric and Elaine

Marisa, Frank, Frank Daniel & Jessie Papalia

July 27, 2007

Dear Melissa, Randall, and Family,

With tears streaming down my face, the sun shining and the rhythmic beat of drums in the background I wrote condolences in a book circulating among the friends gathered at Trocadero to honor Parker, one of the finest young men I have ever met. He was not only a kind, joyful and respectful person, he was a wonderful source of positive energy for all those around him, whether on the dance floor dancing to his amazing drumming or in the stands watching him take it to the hoop in an ASP game. Style, grace, boundless energy, goodness, love - all words that come to mind when remembering your son.

We offer our most heartfelt condolences and want you to know that you and he are in our prayers,

Marisa DiBenigno

July 27, 2007

Dear Melissa, Randall, Claire, Dalton & Luc,

Parker was a wonderful human being who will be sorely missed. I will never forget one of the last encounters I had with him. On prom night I was chaperoning at the Hilton and he asked to drop off his sleeping bag and overnight pack in my car. I was quite capable of carrying the load myself but Parker insisted on leaving his prom to walk me to my car. Chivalry was quite alive with Parker Bradford. During our short walk he said proudly that Frankie and he were wearing their dads' tuxedos that night. I will always remember Parker standing tall, handsome and proud in his dad's tuxedo.

With all my love, prayers and heartfelt condolences,

Heather Murdock

July 27, 2007

Melissa, Randall, Claire, Dalton, and Luc. I am so sorry for you loss. I will always remember Parker's enthusiasm for life, his love of his family and his passion for sports and music. He really was an exceptional human being who had an amazing positive impact on my life. I also want to thank your family for always being so welcoming and loving towards me. I will never forget the time spent together in Paris. I am deeply sorry that I am not able to travel to Utah for the funeral. I am in Montreal and my family is moving to Argentina today.
You family is in my prayers.
With much love, Sincerely
Heather Murdock

Stephanie Wood

July 27, 2007

My dear friends Range and Melissa,
I am so heartily sorry for the loss of your remarkable son. I remember when you bought that beautiful pram in Austria in anticipation of Parker's arrival. I recently came across photos of the baby shower we had for Parker and enjoyed the memories of those moments. Though I have not seen Parker in years, I have followed his life through your entries in our newsletters and e-mails and know what a remarkable person he had become.
My heart is with you during this time and always.

Lynn Wirth

July 27, 2007

Melissa, Randall and children,our hearts are broken! But we know that Parker is serving a mission for those on the other side now. Thank heaven for the sealing power of the Lord! We love you!

Wayne Fagg

July 27, 2007

Dear Melissa, Randy and family,

Please allow me to add my inadequate expression of condolence and hope. From his obituary Parker appears to have been an exemplary young man-no doubt a credit to you and to him. Parker's example of tender devotion to his family and friends and earnest desire to do good will last forever. God be with you and your family until you're reunited, my dear old friends.

Nicolas Othenin-Girard

July 27, 2007

Parker was such a nice guy! I didn't know him really well and was not his best friend, but I will always remember the first time I went to his house and how he played the drums in the basement and just how well Parker played them, made me want to play drums. I did start! I thank you for that... It is the same thing with basketball. All I know is that he is someone that I'll never forget and that will always have a place in my heart.
All my love to the family especially to Claire, who I know since a long time and will also never forget her.

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.

Linda Siebach Hartung

July 27, 2007

Oh Melissa, I haven't been able to breathe right since I heard. Please know I ache for you and my thoughts will be with you as you tuck away earthly hopes and dreams for Parker and know that his work here was done. Thank you for raising a son who was such an asset to the lives around him and may you feel some measure of the peace that passeth all understanding. My love and prayers are with you.

Erin Davis (Christensen)

July 27, 2007

I'll never forget as a young girl when I would babysit Parker and he would ask me to draw a picture of Big Ben. I didn't know what Big Ben was and had to be taught by a 2-yr. old!
I loved spending time with your family while I lived there in Paris. You all had a great influence in my life and I'm so glad to have those memories. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Diana Kline

July 27, 2007

Melissa and Dalton Family--I was deeply saddened to hear about Parker's passing. Our prayers and hearts are with you.

Myrle Dalton-McIntosh

July 27, 2007

Melissa/Randall: My heart is heavy and sad. Even though I haven't seen you in a while, my love has always been with you and is with you now. Love Myrle

Ulla-Britta Melby

July 27, 2007

I was so saddened to read about your son's passing, but what a hero to have given up his life to save another! Although I didn't know Parker I remember well Randy and Melissa. May the Lord be with you at this time.

Eric Vawdrey

July 27, 2007

What a wonderful young man!I was extremly saddened to hear of his death. But what a hero! If we could all go out of this world giving our life to help save another. Amazing. My prayers are with you.

Jonathan & Kimberly Graff

July 27, 2007

Dear Bradfords,
Parker must have been great being a percussionist--and the impact he obviously had around the world in his short life rewarding. Now crowned with being found worthy and receiving the Melchizedek Priesthood. It makes my heart full knowing I am related to such a man. May God bless your family and Parker on High. With love, Jonathan and Kimberly Graff

Salem Musa Hassan

July 26, 2007

My deepest and most heartfelt condolences for the loss of such a wonderful young man. My thoughts are with his family, especially his siblings. His memory will be engraved in the hearts and minds of those who know his generous soul. And those who didn't know Parker will see a little bit of him in each and every person he knew. Thus was the impact of his life on others. Rest in peace habibi.

Jennifer Boren Wright

July 26, 2007

I remember when you were thinking about and planning for Parker on Study Abroad and when you were 9 months pregnant with him at BYU and still teaching aerobics. You were so excited to have him in your family. What a comfort to know you can be with him forever. My heart aches for your loss at this time and my prayers go out to you.

Eliza Dalton

July 26, 2007

Dear family of parker,I am sorry he died... I am going to come! love, Eliza Dalton

Steve & Joanne Stohs

July 26, 2007

Melissa, Randge, Dr. & Sis. Dalton,

We are very saddened by the loss of Parker. The obituary was very touching and we wished we could have met Parker. He was a very great example.

Daryn Tufts

July 26, 2007

I was in the Bradford home one night as Melissa began to assumingly play a hymn on the piano. The rest of us listened as we talked and went about our socializing. I suggested Melissa sing, as well. Her response: “I only sing when others join me.” I laughed, but Parker walked over to his mother and joined her in the hymn. Soon the rest of us, following Parker’s example, surrounded his mother and sang together. His sister Clair even joined in with her flute. I couldn’t help but think of how that action so perfectly summed up who Parker was. At age 16, such sweetness mixed with such leadership and a love for his family and God. And I couldn’t help but witness that it stemmed from such an amazing family. Parker made an impact on me, as he did on so many others fortunate enough to know him. It's very rare I meet anyone with the spirit and character of Parker, much less someone so young. To know Parker at all made it easy to see why so many people have thought so much of him, and why his spirit will live in our hearts. And spending time with his family made it easy to see

Celia Cutler

July 26, 2007

What a wonderful person! I don't know your family but with you I empathize in the loss of your son and brother. He has made the ultimate sacrifice and I am a better person for having read his obituary. May you have our Father in Heaven's blessings to be with you.

Alex Kula

July 26, 2007

Parker was an amazing person who will never be forgotten. He made such a large impact on my life when i moved to paris, and when i left he continued to stay in touch. i am honored to have been his friend and to have known him even for the short amount of time.

Shari Zumbrennen Austin

July 26, 2007

Dear Randy, Melissa and family
What a sad tragedy for you all! My heart goes out to you. Parker sounded like such a great kid. He had the qualities I'd like my boys to develop. And what a neat life you as parents gave him! Hope to see you sometime.

John Francis

July 26, 2007

Dear Melissa and Family: We are so sorry for your tragic loss. We sincerely hope the Lord blesses and comforts you at this time. Please know you have friends including you in their prayers.

Nathan & J'aime Graff

July 26, 2007

We send our deepest feelings of love and sympathy for Parker. We were privledged to be related to him, and our children will benefit from his example.

John and Nancy Hopkins

July 26, 2007

Dear Melissa, Randall, David, and Donna: Our thoughts have been with you since hearing of your loss. Our lives have touched several times over the years reaching from Indiana to Pennsylvania and this latest news of Parker's passing brings the feelings of love and friendship we have felt for your family once again to mind. We'll remember Parker, happy and energetic, as we last saw him at your Doylestown home when we bade you farewell before you left for your overseas assignment. You were truly blessed to have had Parker in your home for these short years where you developed him into a mighty warrior. May the Lord bless you all.

Susanne and Peter Norberg

July 26, 2007

Parker was a wonderful, open, loving and fun young man who we feel honored to have known. Sara thanks him for taking her up the Eiffel tower. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Brig Graff

July 26, 2007

I am so saddened by Parker's passing. Melissa, Randge -- my heart goes out to you two. What an honorable young man -- the best this world has to offer. May the Lord comfort you and forever knit your hearts together.

J'lene Schick

July 26, 2007

Dear Bradford and Dalton family. My prayers are with you every day. I hope you can find the peace and comfort that only comes through the Savior. Please know of my love, concern, and support for you.

Mary Anna and Steven Okin

July 26, 2007

We were fortunate to meet Parker when he was a young boy in Norway. We heard him bang his first drum and saw him bounce his first ball. What an amazing life this young man acheived in such a short time. A tribute to his family. If you have had the privelege to know Parker and the Bradford Family you are truly blessed. I know we are. He will be eternally missed but never forgotten.

Randall & Janet Jones

July 26, 2007

We were sincerely sorry to read about the death of Parker. We did not know him, but reading about his life makes us wish we did. He was a beautiful example of a true disciple of Christ. His parents and grandparents mean a great deal to us and our love and prayers go out to them.

Carolyn Hewitt

July 26, 2007

Dear Bradfords,
My son Edward Hewitt ,who graduated 2 years ago from ASP has wonderful memories of Parker drumming in the ASP jazz band,playing sport and being a fantastic guy.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. With love Carolyn & Edward Hewitt

Garold and Norma Davis

July 26, 2007

Dear Randall, Melissa and Family,
We are deeply saddened with the news of Parker's death. After reading the beautiful obituary, we are also impressed by all that he accomplished and all the people he influenced in his lifetime. We know something about the pain of losses such as you are feeling. Our love and prayers go with you. Garold and Norma Davis

Liberty Miller

July 26, 2007

What a beautiful tribute to your handsome son. So accomplished at a young age. I know that you treasure every memory you have of him and those memories will bring you comfort. Thank you for sharing some of those moments with all of us. I know the Lord will bless you and comfort you at this difficult time.

Katrine Kruger

July 25, 2007

All my love and prayers are with you.

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