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Wade Parker Obituary
At 22, Wade Parker had just joined the Hotshots team. His father works for the nearby Chino Valley Fire Department, said retired Prescott Fire Department Capt. Jeff Knotek, who had known Wade since he was "just a little guy."
The younger Parker had been very excited about being part of the Hotshot crew, Knotek said.
"He was another guy who wanted to be a second generation firefighter," Knotek said. "Big, athletic kid who loved it, aggressive, assertive and in great shape."
"It's just a shame to see this happen," Knotek said.
Associated Press reporters Raquel Maria Dillon in Seal Beach, Calif., Sue Manning in Los Angeles; and Felicia Fonseca and Hannah Dreier in Prescott contributed to this story.
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
109 Entries
Scott French
September 2, 2019
Thank you so much Wade for be the brave soul you are.
November 18, 2014
We just read the entries from this website. My sister somehow found it and gave me the link. Thank you all so very much. We appreciate everyone of you. To the men whom we met who carried our son, thank you for your sacrifice and for caring about all of us. It means so much to us. We look forward to the day we see our son and his crew in heaven. Thank you to our Lord Jesus Christ for bringing us strength and peace throughout this time.
We love and miss you Wade every second of every day ..... until we meet again Love you, Momma
Leon Lu
June 19, 2014
Dear Love ones of Wade,
The life of Wade encouraged me so much to love and to live even stronger for the Lord. I even have a photo of his poem printed out and hanged on my wall!
How you can show support
Casket Team 2
June 16, 2014
To the Parker Family,
A team of firefighters from 5 different states were assigned to Casket Team 2 to assist with the funerals for the Granite Mountain HotShots. It was the highest Honor to be there at the Chino Valley church to assist your family in remembering your son, Wade. Of all the funerals we assisted with, Wade hit us the hardest. From the time we escorted Wade to the funeral home, he affected our lives forever. We not only had the Honor of escorting Wade to the funeral home, but also at the church where we were his Honor Guard before and after the service, to meeting you, his parents at IHOP the next morning, to meeting a cousin at the Phoenix airport as we were going home Saturday afternoon. We, as Casket Team 2, hope that you are doing well and know we are still thinking of you.
Kathleen
November 30, 2013
Dear loved ones of Wade,
It has been nearly six months since this horrific tragedy. My prayer is for you to continue to endure in spite of the emotional pain that greets you each day. May you be comforted in knowing that our heavenly father knows how you feel and listens intently if you call on him and come and pray to him, he listens and will calm your heart. – Jeremiah 29:12
September 25, 2013
Dear Parker family and friends,
I have two firefighter sons and was deeply saddened by tragedies from the Yarnell Fire. I live in Long Beach, but traveled to Prescott for the Memorial Service there, and then also locally for Kevin Woyjeck. I have read and re-read the biographies of the fallen Granite Mountain Hotshots and stayed in touch through the Wildland Firefighter Foundation and other sites that have been created in honor of your son and the others.
I must admit that your son's life bears a very close resemblance to my own two, and therefore I write to you not just in sympathy, but also as a father who loves his sons and the lives they have chosen.
Please know that there are hundreds if not thousands of us who have sons like Wade and we both grieve, and also congratulate you for bringing him into this world so others could know him. His life was a gift and he lived in according to your guidance, which is something you should be proud of.
Is there anything we can do for you? I hope you don't mind that I have singled out Wade since his love of sports and the outdoors, also mirrors my own.
With great respect and honor coming your way.
Wes Edwards, Long Beach, CA [email protected]
Cindy Davis
September 16, 2013
Love you wade Parker
You are my hero
Love
Cindy Davis San Diego calif
t Lee
August 18, 2013
I know ure in a better place Wade. U will be missed. Let ure family know you're alright, its been really hard for them.. U know ure with good company. R.I.P
A headstone from ireland quote
August 15, 2013
Michelle Kendall & Family
August 10, 2013
The world is full of men, but what of men noble and true?
Can you say that you have known such a man?
These men are far too few.
But let me tell you a a story,
About a team of men
Who left behind a legacy
That will not be forgotten.
Highly trained,
They passed every test,
Chosen to fight wild fires,
They were called the best.
One scorching June day in 2013,
When a wildfire raged
The Hotshots were called upon
To battle the fiery blaze.
Armed with tools and heavy gear,
They set out in their prime,
No job too hard for these men,
No hill too tall to climb.
Command was set, plans were made
To tackle the fire's wrath
But winds shifted unexpectedly
And they were trapped in the fire's path.
19 men were caught that day,
The fire drew quickly near
Though they knew they were truly trapped,
Not a one showed fear.
Dig your shelters, men came the command,
Each one knew what this meant
They dug with haste and with one final look
They took to their tents.
Then let us look away,
For we cannot bear
What came to each one next,
Each man endured in those fiery moments,
His final Hotshot test.
And when the aid finally found the men,
The blackened landscape bore
The testimony of death everywhere,
And the men who were no more.
Oh children, your father was so brave,
A man who did his best
In work excelled, he fought to save,
withstanding every test.
Dear widow, may you never shed
another tear at some unhappy strife
For you've suffered enough dread
The day your husband lost his life.
Young sweetheart, your hopes and dreams
Lay in ashes, from the fire's wrath
May you find hope and dream once more
Though sorrow has changed your path.
Sad mother, your beautiful son,
your joy and your pride
Whom you succored with patient love,
has bravely lived and bravely died.
Two prayers I pray for you, the first,
Though all hope now seem dim
May you have a hope in God,
And place your trust in Him.
Second, May something good,
Something beautiful and strong
Emerge from this tragic loss
From something that went so wrong.
Then like a Phoenix from the ashes
May these men and their noble deeds
Live, for love is stronger than death,
In the lives of those who who stop here to read.
A mountain reflection the stars
August 9, 2013
The voyage
August 9, 2013
Sandee Garza Schock
August 7, 2013
To the Family & Friends
of Mr. Parker
Please accept my deepest
sympathy in the loss of
Your HERO. May He Rest In
Peace. May God comfort You
during this difficult time.
Sincerely
Rosanne Sullivan
July 30, 2013
You have our deepest sympathy for your loss. We feel your pain as firefighting parents here in Illinois. Our son Dan is in fire and his wife Kristi ( went to hight school with Dan Parker)Kristi and Dan work out of the Prescott fire center and Dan was on site at the Yarnell Hill Fire. We will ALWAYS keep you in our thoughts and prayers each day. May God hold you all in the palm of his hand and help you through this time of grief. Our hearts go out to all of you. God Bless
July 25, 2013
God Bless!
My boys and I
David Fenwick
July 21, 2013
Life is an accumulation of moments.
A couple years back,I had the pleasure of Danny introduce his son to me in a Walmart store.
This happened to be one of those moments that will always stand out to me. It was very apparent how proud Danny was of Wade.
Wade, most definitely, is my hero.
July 18, 2013
May the God of all comfort be near to you during this difficult time.
Christine Mousseau
July 15, 2013
Alicia, I don't know you but I know what it is to lose someone that you love with all your heart. I lost my mother at the age of 65 3 and half months ago. She died of cancer. She was my best friend and I miss her so very much. I can't image losing your high school sweetheart and fiancee just months before you are to get married. I do know that grieving for those we love and have lost is the hardest thing to go though. Be patient with yourself on the good days and the very bad days. Allow yourself to cry, get mad and to remember all the moments that you had together. I like to think that my mother is taking care of Wade and his brothers up in Heaven. She was the kind of mother that love to just mother everyone. I know you will see Wade again just as I will see my mother again so it is never saying good-bye to them but until we all get to met again. I will be thinking and sending you my prayers now and the months to come. My heart breaks for you so very much.
Leisa Amorosa
July 14, 2013
My heart and prayers are with all of you, dear friends. My son, 24-year-old Levi, is also with Wade in glory. I await with great expectation to see them someday soon, and knowing your faith in God is strong, I know you do too.
Corey Bowman
July 14, 2013
Mrs. Parker, I never new your son personally. I know that he went to Chino Valley High School about the same time that I started working there. I will be praying for you and the whole family.
The Watsula Family
July 13, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Parker Family.
July 13, 2013
RIP, and may your family be comforted during this horrible time. Our forever heroes. Linda from Seattle and Prescott.
Dorothy Kellerman
July 12, 2013
Our family extends our deepest sympathies for your loss.
Dorothy Ann Hindman Kellerman and all the Kellerman family.
Sue (Marvin) Cutaia
July 12, 2013
to the Parker Family-I am so very sorry for your loss. I hope you find comfort in each other and knowing your life was better for having Wade in it.
Sincerely,
Beverly Goodnight
July 11, 2013
Our hearts and prayers go out to Wade's family. We are here to support you all, and send our sincere condolences....friends of Aunt Kandy & Uncle Dave.
Walterrean salley
July 11, 2013
To the Parker family. Across the country, we mourn with you, as our hearts are broken too. May God bless and strengthen you during this difficult time.
Remember to pray for firefighters and their families everywhere.
PRAYER FOR FIREFIGHTERS
Bless the firefighters—one and ALL;
Go before them on each call.
Protect them as they serve our kind,
Saving lives with theirs on line.
By Your mercy and Your grace,
Keep their families truly safe.
Oh, may they never suffer harm
At the sound of the alarm.
Grant them wisdom, knowledge too—
All, dear Lord, which comes from You.
Daily be their shield and guide;
Never—ever—leave their side.
Strengthen now the hands that serve
With the blessings they deserve.
© 2001 by Walterrean Salley
Nikki Aloisio
July 11, 2013
Praying for the family, lifting you up in prayer. I don't personally know the family, but i care and love you and you son. You will be in my prayers and thoughts.
Cheryl Bicker
July 10, 2013
What an amazing young man you raised - my heart aches for your loss -
Pennie & Tammy White
July 10, 2013
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your hearts. We are so very sorry for your loss. We were told about Wade through some of his Phoenix family. He was an extraordinary young man. May he rest in peace.
Howard Deming
July 10, 2013
My son Neal, played baseball with Wade. What an outstanding young man and gone too soon. May the God of peace grant you peace and comfort in this tragic time.
July 9, 2013
Our family extends its deepest sympathies for your loss...Wade is immortalized as Chino's finest! We are so proud to have known him. Love, The DalCerro Family
Anne Lippert
July 9, 2013
What a touching service today. Wade was a true warrior for not only fire fighters but for Christ. The poem he wrote that was read at the funeral service today in Prescott was heard by the world. What a testimony! May Wade's soul rest in peace and may your family heal from this tragic loss.
Mary Sue Thompson
July 9, 2013
Wonderful service, wonderful life-work! He was protecting people, their properties, and the natural habitats that support our wildlife. Thank you, Wade, for your selfless work! To his family; take strength from all the love, even from all of us who did not personally know Wade, or you, his family.
Ralph Rodarte Jr.
July 9, 2013
My deepest sympathy on the loss of your beautiful boy Wade. Take comfort in knowing he didn't die alone, but his father in heaven was by his side. Thank you for raising a boy into a man who laid his life on the line for the safety and welfare of others. Wade Scott Parker an American Hero.
Kevin and Tasha Heaton
July 8, 2013
Our deepest condolences to you the family and loved ones of this extraordinary young man. He has touched the hearts & minds of the world with his exemplary character,integrity, passion and dedication. He will not be forgotten. His life made a difference. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and in the days to come. May the God of ALL Comfort - comfort you as only He can. "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed,for His compassions never fail. With great respect,
July 8, 2013
Wade was a great kid. I know he will be missed by all. We are praying for all of you.
Bunni in Prescott Valley, Az.
Lynda Maleta
July 8, 2013
Find healing in the cheerished memories that will live on of these devoted Angels. These "19 HEROES OF THE FOREST" will never be forgotten. Keep the Faith. Many Blessings and Hugs.
Barbara Kolb
July 8, 2013
So sorry to lose this incredible young man. There is deep sadness in the hearts of Arizonans. We mourn with you.
Eileen Andric
July 8, 2013
So very sorry for your loss. A true American hero.
Jo
July 7, 2013
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Chuck and Patty Aflitto
July 6, 2013
Our hearts are broken for your family and for all the fallen firefighters. We are so sorry and we are praying for you. We will always remember Wade as a true Hero.
Keith and Cindy and Steven Davis
July 6, 2013
We were all so proud of you Wade. The Lord loves you and pease to your family and loved ones.
The Davis familey.
San Diego Ca.
Ady Leigh
July 6, 2013
I'm so very sorry to hear of this terrible tragedy. My sincere condolences to Wade's family. Treasure your memories as memories are a legacy of love. May the love of family and friends carry you through your grief...
Willie & Valerie Lough
July 5, 2013
You have our deepest symathy. Many thoughts and prayers are being sent your way during this difficult time.
Marjean Kinsey
July 5, 2013
May the Lord's light guide you through this difficult time and may it provide you some comfort to know that Wade was and will always be a hero.
Debbie Luevano
July 5, 2013
Our deepest condolences. God welcomed all the Hotshots home with open arms. RIP
Donna Corbin-Strege
July 5, 2013
RIP Wade Parker
Donna Corbin-Strege
July 5, 2013
My heart breaks for the loss of Wade. I'm sure I met him on my many trips to Chino Valley over the years. My Grandson Justin Ludwig graduated with Wade. I know how hard this is going to be for you and your family. He will never be forgotten!!
Miki
July 4, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. I am praying for your family during this time of grief.
Gregg Pelka
July 4, 2013
I was fortunate enough to know Wade in many different ways through his passion of baseball. As an opponent of our Estrella Foothills squads, he was one of those guys you just hated to play against for his tenacity and talent. He was an integral of some very special Cougars' teams who we played in the then 3A West Region. I had an opportunity to coach him as well on Garden of Gears for a summer and he truly was a joy to coach and be around. That summer also gave me a chance to get to know his dad. Wade was a special person and you quickly learned that his positive and never-ending effort was inherited. He always put his family first in everything. Wade was always about everyone else and his dedication to serving others cost him his life. To the community of Chino Valley, to Chino Valley High, to Coach Nesbitt, and to the Parker family, you were blessed to have such a wonderful person in your midst for over 20 years. He has moved on, but his actions and smile touched each of us beyond belief. I know that Wade will forever hold a spot etched in my heart. God bless all of you and bless Wade.
Cody Brooks
July 4, 2013
Dan and family I am SO SORRY for your loss. My prayers go out to you.
Sharon Anderson
July 4, 2013
I didn't personally know Wade, but I feel close to Chino Valley because I lived there when CV High School opened. My own son was a member of the second graduating class. It's hard to deal with the loss of someone so young...all of them. I hope you will find comfort and peace through this ordeal. God be with you. All of us are mourning with you. I lost one of my own sons in May, so I have some idea of what you are feeling.
susan cowell
July 4, 2013
So sorry for you loss of this BRAVE young man. To sacrifice his life for others is so greatly appreciated. Hold on to those wonderful memories of this great hero.
Mary Jo Sides
July 3, 2013
My cousin, Clifford Parker in Indiana, e-mailed me that he sat and cried upon the news of Wade's death even though they were no kin. Everyone is affected by Wade's tragic death. Our prayers to you.
July 3, 2013
our prayers are with your family
Sarah
July 3, 2013
Your family are all in my prayers
Rios Family
July 3, 2013
Chino Valley mourns with you. We feel you loss.
Marian Marsceill
July 3, 2013
So sorry to hear about your loss. Thoughts and prayers are sent your way. God bless.
Chelsea Russell
July 3, 2013
Sending love and light to the Parker family and all who knew him, my sincerest condolences. RIP Brother;
Chelsea Russell, Toronto Fire Services
July 3, 2013
prayers to all you family rip
Danna Doyle
July 3, 2013
Wade was one of my students at Chino Valley high school. I taught Theatre and although it was not Wade's favorite subject, he always did his work well and was a fun kid to have in class. He had a great sense of humor and was the kind of kid you could depend on to lead others. I am so sorry for your loss!
Always in our hearts!
July 3, 2013
Danny and Joyce Snide
July 3, 2013
Comfort the Bereaved
When earthbound days are done, and loved ones go beyond, Sometimes our Lord's promis for eternal life is hidden in grief and loneliness and strife, but, a sympathetic nod, a note that says, "I care", a gesture or a hand to hold will lift clouds of despair. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Romans 12:15. We are weeping with your family as you try to cope with this tragedy. Love Joyce, Peoria Az
Jenny Bruner
July 3, 2013
My deepest condolonce during this time for the Parker family. May God bless each of you and give you the strenght needed. A true Hero!
Carolyn Hettich
July 3, 2013
My heartfelt condolences. I am so very sorry for your loss; so very grateful for your sacrifice.
Charlene Rathgeb
July 3, 2013
Sending you much love, and hope that you are granted strength in the coming days. Our sorrow is truly numbing, and our hearts are with you. Charlene and Mike Rathgeb, both with Toronto Fire Services, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
July 3, 2013
God Bless you, our American Hero....You're an angel looking down on us and we couldn't love you more....Thank You for your heroism.....
July 3, 2013
The thoughts and prayers of the nation are with you as you grieve the loss of your loved one. May you find some comfort in knowing that you are in the thoughts and prayers of so many at this sad time.
Rich Reay of WHFD
July 3, 2013
God Bless the Parker family during this difficult time. Wade is truly a hero for what he believed and for what he did. God Bless Wade!
Robyn
July 2, 2013
Bless you all now, loss of son and comrade and know that he is not gone but forever in your hearts
EDGAR & NELL BROWN
July 2, 2013
YOUR LIGHT IS NOW SHINING IN HEAVEN. PARKER FAMILY OUR PRAYERS ARE WITH AT THIS TIME. MAY GOD BLESS AND COMFORT YOU.
July 2, 2013
praying four your famile god bless you joanna vincent chandler az
Michelle Stierstorfer
July 2, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this trying time! Have faith that your son is in heaven standing at the right hand of God watching over you. He will forever be hitting homeruns in the hearts and minds of those he touched.
Alexandria Napier
July 2, 2013
So very sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Wade was a hero, and will never be forgotten.
Jay Stayner
July 2, 2013
So so very sorry for your loss. Wade's uncle Miles Truex and I worked together for many years in Law enforcement, and I later became an Arson Investigaor for our department. I know the dangers and rewards firefighting can bring. Your family is in my prayers....
Carol Durkin
July 2, 2013
God Bless your family.
All of Arizona grieves with you.
With Deep Sympathy --
Gigi Cirrincione
July 2, 2013
Praying for you that God will comfort you and give you peace during this time of tragic loss. I didn't know these men personally, but I know they had huge hearts, and were extremely courageous to do what they did.
July 2, 2013
Our hearts are heavy and share in your pain. God Bless your son and his fellow Hotshots that lost their lives. Our thoughts are with you.........MacFarlane, L and K.
Monica Martin
July 2, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts. No words can help at this time but please remember we share in your loss. My husband, my oldest daughter, and myself are firefighters.
Marty and Pam Messenger
July 2, 2013
We send our thoughts and prayers to you all . Wade will always be remembered for the very special person he was. Marty and Pam Messenger
Debbie Hobday
July 2, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Wade Parker at this time. I pray you will find peace and comfort knowing that Wade was doing what he loved. He is a hero.
Jody K
July 2, 2013
Capt Dan and family, I am so very sorry that your family is going through this great loss with the passing of Wade. Please know that your family and Wade's friends will be in my thoughts and prayers. Prescott will never forget!
Steve and Keely Callaway
July 2, 2013
Deepest condolences to your family & friends for the loss of your dear one; a true hero. God be with you in comfort and love as you grieve the loss of this great man. Be assured he gave his life in great honor. There is no way to thank him for his sacrifice; so in the memory of his dear passed soul I thank you, his loving family and friends. You are now his legacy. My heart is broken with you. So, so sorry for you loss.
Jeanette
July 2, 2013
My thoughts are prayers are with you at this time.
Steve and Keely Callaway
July 2, 2013
Deepest condolences to your family & friends for the loss of your dear one; a true hero. God be with you in comfort and love as you grieve the loss of this great man. Be assured he gave his life in great honor. There is no way to thank him for his sacrifice; so in the memory of his dear passed soul I thank you, his loving family and friends. You are now his legacy. My heart is broken with you. So, so sorry for you loss.
July 2, 2013
God's Blessings
Kathy & Brian Kent
Blenheim Ontario Canada
Nancy & Norm Sandoz
July 2, 2013
That we could give you a gift of peace and hope but since we can't we do give you our prayer and thoughts asking God to give you strength, hope and comfort.
The O'Coys
July 2, 2013
We are so very sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers and thoughts. Wade will always be remembered.
David & Kathryn Luithle
July 2, 2013
May you find strength in God in this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Tony S.
July 2, 2013
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of these fine young men that paid the ultimate price. My prayers are with you!
Connie Hunter
July 2, 2013
Our prayers are with you and your family,
Connie Hunter and family
Betty Beale
July 2, 2013
My heart breaks for all of you. May God give you strength to cope with this terrible loss. Leon everyone here in Kingman is heart broken for you and sending their love. Betty
July 2, 2013
What a tragedy. May God give you peace, comfort and strength to endure this nightmare. My heart breaks for you all.
Carol Underwood, Burlington, NC
July 2, 2013
My nephew Sheldon Murphy played ball with Wade in HS. Sheldon said he was such a good guy always happy loved sports. I told Sheldon we was very blessed to have known a wonderful brave young man .Our family sends prayers, may gods love bring you comfort. Our hearts are broken for all the brave firefighters.
Lenore and Fran.
July 2, 2013
Our hearts are broken for the family of Word of life church. In Chino Valley. We love you all.Wade will be missed by us.
Charlotte
July 2, 2013
My heart breaks for Wade Parker's family. I pray that God comforts them with an everlasting peace and love.
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