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Philip Parker Obituary
Next to his wife, Joan, and daughter, Stephanie, Philip Parker had two great loves: music and his green MG convertible, which he bought in 1977 when he and Joan were dating.
By day, Mr. Parker, 53, was a senior vice president of Aon Corporation, which took him frequently to Aon's office on the 99th floor of the World Trade Center. But on weekends, he was transformed. He became a D.J., at least in the privacy of his home, mixing CD's to entertain friends, or just his wife. He played banjo and guitar.
And then there was the car, his constant joy and headache -- "a mechanical nightmare," Mrs. Parker said. "He said he was going to either give it up or have someone restore it." In the end, he couldn't bear to let it go, and had it restored.
Mrs. Parker could never drive it because it has a standard transmission. Now she plans to learn.
"There might be a few thunderstorms up there," said Mrs. Parker, imagining her husband looking down from heaven as she struggles to drive the thing. She can just hear him yelling, "'Don't burn the clutch!'"
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Kindred Family
January 4, 2020
Phil is still sadly missed and not forgotten. Each day may God give the support and help needed. Our sincere heartfelt condolences to your family.
Rachel Lullio
September 12, 2019
Always in our hearts thoughts and prayers.
September 11, 2019
Phil, still remember you from high school playing your banjo and your great smile.
RIP
Sandee Smith Moore class of 1965 Tenafly High School
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Mark Christie
September 11, 2017
Phil - You will NEVER be forgotten and are missed by so many of your friends and co-workers.
September 10, 2017
We all miss you But I can't tell you how much your buddy misses you...If there's a heaven, I know you and Archie are in it together. Looking at your picture right now xox Vin Rach & Reb
S.J. Friscia III
February 24, 2017
In Memory with
Honor & Respect.
September 12, 2016
It's the morning after the 15th anniversary. I tried yesterday to find this guestbook but I couldn't so this is one day late. At any rate, we speak of you often, think of you more, and look at your picture always and hope you and Archie are sharing a hearty laugh together...but you must know that.
With love, Rachel and Vinny
Patricia Barraza
September 12, 2016
Always in our thoughts & prayers
A rose for my Uncle Gucky~(9/11/16)
Dana Bennison
September 11, 2016
I am thinking of and missing you today, Uncle Gucky.
With Love Always,
Your niece,
Dana
Lullio's
September 11, 2015
As long as we're breathing.. You're in our prayers always. xo
Brian Alterio
May 6, 2015
Shot this the other day.
Thought you appreciate this.
Joan Parker
September 13, 2014
It is so heartwarming to see messages in remembrance of Phil that were posted this year and previous ones. I don't visit the site much anymore but when I do, it's bittersweet. So nice to see how much Phil meant to so many but so very sad that he's gone. Thanks to all of you for keeping Phil alive in your memories - it means so much.
Randi Seeley
September 11, 2014
Another year has gone by but the horror of what happened will never fade with time. I think of you often.
Alfred Jordan
September 11, 2014
Remembering fondly the few times we got together with Lynn Felten (now deceased also).
September 11, 2014
You are still remembered. You and your family are still being prayed for.
Rach Vin & Rebecca Lullio
September 11, 2014
Sitting solemn on this day, remembering you always as the brightest, sweet man you were/are. Every September 11th I wait and watch for your name to be called on the TV tribute.. But your picture sits forever in Vinny's room and your memory lives in our hearts. Xox
Pam Hunt
September 11, 2014
Remembering Phil today by listening to some of his favorite folk music.
Maryann McKenna
September 11, 2014
Thinking of you today.
Mark Christie
September 10, 2014
We will NEVER forget....
Sandee Moore
September 3, 2014
Phil, I remember you well from Tenafly High School. You were always one of the nice guys. Very funny, talented and down to earth. Glad you met and married a wonderful wife (feel like I know her from her words to you) and had an amazing daughter. My thoughts and prayers go out to them. RIP and keep them laughing.
Sanded Smith Moore
Sandy Hulse
September 13, 2013
Muhlenberg '70 ...
September 12, 2013
In our hearts and minds, always with love.
Ray Vin & Reb
September 11, 2013
Time passes, but memory does not fade. Missed always.
Randi
Rachel Lullio
September 12, 2012
Another year come and gone. We think of you, Joan and Stephanie every day, as your picture sits in our den. You will live on as long as we all do. We miss you. The world has truly never been the same. Love, Rach, Vin & Rebecca
Patricia & Charles Barraza
September 11, 2012
Dear Phil & family,
We shall never forget? you, your smile, your voice and your laugh. We shall keep this day as a sacred remembrance of you and what we lost in a moment. ?
We carry on but we never leave you behind. Thank you for helping us daily to carry the tears and the sadness in our hearts but still to move forward with strength and determination. God Bless You and your family today and always. Patricia & Charles Barraza
anonomyous
September 12, 2011
I had the great pleasure of knowing Phil when he was broking at AON. Always honest, always knowledgeable about his clients, always ready to do whatever he could to get the deal done right; he was a great broker. But more than that we all looked forward to being with him. He was the one we always wanted to have dinner with. He was an unusual man and truly one of the best people I have ever had the privilege of knowing.
I know that when Phil left us he was trying to help others right to the end. Selfless and brave; there are very few people that would ever do what he did. The ultimate test of courage and he showed that he had it.
God bless you Phil.
JKG
Greenwich,CT
Patricia Barraza
September 11, 2011
Seasons change, time passes but what remains the same is your imprint on our hearts. Your smile, your face, your stories & jokes are forever ours. Rest in peace and may God Bless you and your family today on the 10th anniversary of that terrible morning. We miss you and we are better for having known you. We remember you today and always...
Pat & Chuck Barraza
Mark Christie
September 11, 2011
Can't believe it's been 10 years. My Dad & I speak of you often and you remain in our hearts.
Mark
September 10, 2011
Ten years - how can it be that I've been without you for that long? The media makes it impossible to avoid the horrific images of that horrible day but that is not what I want to remember. I want to remember the man I fell in love with many years ago. The man who made me laugh, the man who loved me and our daughter with such devotion, the man who always made me feel safe. I miss you so very much and will love you always. Joanie xxoo
September 10, 2011
We're always thinking of you, not only on this day. Your picture still graces the desk in our house. We miss your humor and wit.. you live on in our hearts, always. xoxo Rach Vin & Rebecca
Randi Seeley
September 10, 2011
I learned alot working for you, as you had the gift for words and always knowing what to say; our shared love of music, the NY Jets. On this 10th anniversary of the atrocity that took you from this earth, please rest in peace and know that I often think about you.
Joanie
February 26, 2011
Am missing you so much today - if you're looking over us, you'll know why. Hugs, my sweet Phil.
September 11, 2010
Wondering if this way of communication that seems to travel thru space can somehow reach Heaven. Who knows... so just in case, we're sending you all our love and remembering you as we do all year, your picture still sits in our house to be smiled at and talked to...and if Steph and Joan visit here, we love you guys always...xoxox Rach
Dana Bennison
September 11, 2010
Good morning dear Uncle Guck,
I am thinking about you today. While sitting on my porch at a stunning northern September sunset yesterday evening with a glass of wine in honor of you in hand, the words "I am so sorry you had to die the way you did" kept echoing in my mind. These were different words than had come to me in the past on the other eight anniversaries, so I wanted to share them with you today. I am so sorry you had to die such a horrible death. I am so very sorry.
It is my hope that you know that while we are all, in some ways, I am sure, alone in our moment of dying, that you were not alone in your moment of leaving this Earth. We were all pleading for your life and praying for your survival. However, when that proved a sad impossibility, we began praying for your soul and have not stopped doing so since. It is my hope you know what a wonderful legacy you have left here on Earth and how loved you are and will always continue to be. Moreover, wherever this may find you today, I hope you have found peace and happiness.
All my love and prayers of Godspeed,
Your niece,
Dana
September 11, 2009
Thinking, of course, of you today, dear Uncle Gucky. I awoke to the sweet sound of a pleasure plane flying over Lake Michigan this morning, which I thought fitting, on this warm and beautiful, albeit always sad and strange, September morning. Perhaps your soul was accompanying the pilot in the cockpit. I'd like to think so...We miss you, think of and remember you fondly, and will always love you and honor your memory. Always,
Your niece, Dana
Rachel
September 24, 2008
Thinking, as always, of all of you on this day, but not only on this day...hoping you are all well and wishing you all peace and happiness, wherever life and time take you.
Joan Parker
December 20, 2007
Hey Babe,
It's almost Christmas and we all got the best present ever - especially Stephanie! She was accepted to American University and will start in their spring semester come January '08. ISN'T THAT GREAT?? Steph is doing so well - she's made such huge strides this past year - I am so proud of her and I know you would be too. She and I have worked our way back to one another and our family, for the first time since you've been gone, feels whole again. It will never be the same without you but as mother and daughter, we are back and I couldn't be happier about it.
We talk about you all the time and hope that you know we carry you with us wherever we go. Take good care of her as she heads out on her new venture and shed light down on her whenever you can. She is so much your daughter - it warms me to see you in so many things that she does.
This has been a good year, Phil - probably the best year I've had since you were killed. Steph and I have both grown from the adversity that has been our lives for the last six years and are thriving.
I hope that makes you happy.
We are just having a "Zazza" Christmas this year but are talking of maybe heading south next year to be with Leslie, Bill and the girls and your great niece and soon to be born, great nephew. FINALLY, a boy in the family.
We miss our family get togethers and more than ever, feel the need to stay connected.
I still cry sometimes when I think of you, or see your picture but more often than not, I smile at the same times. My memories of you have grown bigger and keep you alive in a way that only I can understand.
Our connection to each other will always be there - I feel it.
I know you will be with us on Christmas Day as you are every other day. I love you my dear husband - we have much to be thankful for this year and will continue to honor and keep you in our hearts.
Love, Joanie
Dana Bennison
September 11, 2007
P.S.: First, pardon the repetitive nature of my two messages...I wanted so much to get through to you and feared the first one hadn't reached you, but it did. Second, in my early a.m. sadness, while I was scripting to you the second time, I told you You were going to have a nephew and I wanted to rectify this error. I assure you your sister Leslie is not pregnant but your lovely niece Vanessa again is and is having a son, William Andrew, a soon-to-be brother to the wonder that is Elizabeth Parker, this January...thus, that will make you a GrandUncle and he, your GrandNephew...I'm sure you'll be shining your brightest stars down on him as well! Well, that's all then...Goodnight, Uncle Guck and Take good good care up there in Heaven tonight...We miss you.
Dana Bennison
September 11, 2007
Dear Uncle Gucki...Here I am on a crystal clear Carolina Blue Sky morning, much like the day we lost you six years ago, having left the Big Apple behind after seven years for the Windy City. Even 1000 miles away and six years later, I still ache and weep just the same for the loss of your good soul, our family, your friends, our nation and world. You came to me in a dream the other night, smiling that Parker smile I miss so much, which had the ability to jest and reassure at the same time. I thank you for your sometimes visits in my slumber and wanders and appreciate your message and vision-much like an angel you have become to me. Over the years, I swear I have heard you in a strong gust of wind or in a good banjo or guitar tune-in these ways, you remain here with us. So, wherever you and the souls of the others lost and fallen on that day may be, I pray that you are happy and safe and also send my love to the families and friends who are mourning today and really always. Please know that we are keeping on keeping on down here on Earth but miss you and love you all the same.
May God Bless and Keep you...
Always,
Your niece, dana
P.S.: Your wife and daughter and sister seem to be doing well and I continue to marvel at their strength and grace through this recovery process. And, guess what??!! You have a nephew, William Andrew, on the way--finally some boys in the family!
Rachel Lullio
September 11, 2007
Another year gone by, another time for posting...but we think of you and speak your name often. We carry your memory in our hearts, where you can always stay safe and warm.
Dana Bennison
September 10, 2007
Dear Uncle Gucki...
So, here I am in my proverbial new life, having left the Big Apple after seven wonderful, albeit arduous years, for the Windy City, to pursue a career in psychology and peacemaking, one I am confident 9/11 and its ramifications have led me to-certainly the only good thing any of that day has brought to my life. Even 1000 miles away and 6 years after the day that we lost you, I ache and weep just the same tonight for you, our family, your friends, our country, and our world. I pray for you and to you and Muriel and Leys always and am wholly convinced you serve as my angels..You and Gramps actually came to me in a dream last night, joking around the Sunday dinner table, one of our most cherished memory places, with those knowing Parker smiles that had the ability to jest and reassure at the very same time. Thank you for your sometimes visits to my slumber and wanders-I have heard you in gusts of winds and impromptu musical refrains over the years and I trust your presence and the vision and message you provide. I am certain you would've enjoyed sharing a beer with me tonight at the Celtic Knot as there was this fun bluegrass band called the MudFlatts playing, and, through my beer tears, I took some solace in hearing your soul and memory come alive there through the strains of the banjo and guitar...So, Uncle Guck, there's a lot more I could say, but we had a big heart-to-heart in Church and on Lake Michigan yesterday, so I don't need to say it again here...but we sure miss you down here on Earth and my heart continues to break and ache for all the victims of that horrific day and their family and friends..I sure hope wherever you are that you are keeping one another warm, supported, and lifted, always knowing that we down here are keeping on keeping on while loving you all the same.
P.S.-I came across this quote on a little Church on the UWS before moving and it continues to resound in my mind. I hope and pray I can put it into better practice in the future and ask you to guide me in this process...
"Tragedy is a tool for the living to gain wisdom, not a guide by which to live"--RFK
May God Bless You and Keep you Always.
I love you, dane.
Joan Parker
July 28, 2007
Even though it's been almost 6 years,and I am in a pretty good place, you still need to know that I love and miss you so much. You're supposed to be here watching our daughter grow up and you're supposed to be here growing old with me. But....you're not and we are finding ways to cope and live our lives in ways that would make you proud. They keep finding remains at Ground Zero and every time they do, I wonder if it's you......and people still have trouble understanding why we continue to struggle with this...........
Know that you live on in my heart and soul and also know that Steph and I are striving to find happiness and peace in our lives, not only for us, but for you.
For you, my dear, sweet Phil will always be the beacon that leads us to be the best we can be.
All my love always,
Joanie
P Tabbernor
January 26, 2007
In remembrance....
Rachel Lullio
January 16, 2007
Dear Joan & Steph,
I know we don't speak very often but I just wanted to come on here and let you know that I think of you all often. Phil's smiling picture still sits in our little library at home and he will never be forgotten.
Steph, no one will ever forget your dad till we are all gone to the same place and as far as you go in life, you have to know that he is watching over you and must be so proud of you. It's hard to believe that both you and Rebecca are growing up so fast and driving around! When I saw you at the wedding I was amazed at how beautiful you were and so - well - grown up! You are the absolute apple of your daddy's eye and you have so much of him in you, especially musically and intellectually. It was good to see you. I hope you drop in here and read this so you know we love you and are thinking of you even if we don't talk a lot. And not to worry, sweetheart...you aren't alone in your thoughts, there are always others feeling and remembering your dad at different times, and all of us will never forget him...and we'll always be thinking of you, too!
xoxo Rachel
Kristine
November 29, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Princess Cat
September 11, 2006
Joan and Stephanie:
I have posted a tribute to Phil on my website as part of the Honoring 2,996 Project. I wanted you to know it was there and that our nation misses him too.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Maryann McKenna
September 10, 2006
Hey Phil,
Just a short note to say I still think of you and it still saddens me so that you are no longer here with your family. I will always remember you and I will continue to keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Joan Parker
August 2, 2006
Hi Phil,
It's August 2, 2006. I finally got the courage to open the contents of the box that had some of your personal belongings that were found.
Your car keys, your driver's license and pilot's license - receipts from purchases and business dinners out with clients - your briefcase and wallet - all in tact. It never ceases to amaze me that your things were found but you were not. How I miss you!
Stephanie got her driver's license and is tooling all over town.
This weekend is J.P.'s wedding. You should be here with us to celebrate. He's marrying such a beautiful girl named Maura. I know Arch will miss you that day as will I. The year is rocketing along and before you know it, the fifth anniversary will be here. I can't seem to wrap my arms around the fact that you've been gone this long. In some ways it's flown by and in others, it's been agonizingly slow.
We continue to have our struggles with your death and life in general but we have also found ways to be happy - to laugh with friends and to laugh at ourselves. There are many times when I feel like myself again - the memories of you fill my heart and make me smile.
We will celebrate for you on Saturday and know in our hearts that in some way or other, you will be with us.
All my love,
Joanie
Emily Navarra
July 22, 2006
Phil,
Its been more than 4 years since you've passed. I never had really gotten to know you the few times i came to my moms work in philly. i remember writing to your wife and daughter after 9/11 had happened, i can only imagine what they have gone through these years that have gone by. i just wanted to let you know, you will never be forgotten. god bless you and your family. rest in peace 'uncle phil'
Joan Parker
April 1, 2006
Phil,
The last couple of weeks, 9/11 has been in the news almost every day - the Massaoui trial and now the release of the tapes of calls made to 911 by some of the victims. It's so hard to see and hear these images again without reliving that horrible day and agonizing over
how you died and what you went through in that tower.
I miss you so much - I have tried so hard not to focus on the events of that day but unfortunately the media makes that next to impossible.
You are always in my thoughts but so much more so these last few days.
You are supposed to be here with me and Steph, sharing our lives as we promised each other we'd do.
You have a new great niece - Vanessa had her baby yesterday - a little girl named Elizabeth Parker Brooks. I hope to meet her in May when I plan to make a visit down south. She gives me hope and promise for a better tomorrow - for her sake, I hope it happens.
Steph is 17 now and learning to drive - she bought herself a new car and will have her license in July. Wish it were you teaching her how to drive!!!
I've longed to hear your voice and see your smile - I love you still and always will. A part of me will be devoted to you always.
I hope wherever you are, you are happy and peaceful. I hope you watch over us when you can - your presence here is so greatly missed.
I love you,
Joanie
Maryann McKenna
January 13, 2006
Phil,
Although it has been over 4 years, I still think of you often. I miss the conversations we used to have about your daughter and my kids. I also miss the conversations about flying and how much I feared it. I don’t think I have a day go by that I don’t think about 9/11. You and your family are always in my thoughts and prayers.
Stephanie, please don’t think your dad will ever be forgotten. I know that until the day I die, I will remember him and everyone else that we lost. I work in the New York office and there are a couple of people here that have a picture of your dad hanging up. We still talk about him often. He was too special of a person to ever forget. Believe me, he will always be remembered.
Patricia Barraza
September 11, 2005
More than a moment of silence, on this day and everyday may we use our lives to honor and respectfully remember you. With careful consideration we continue on where you could have gone, good left undone, countless gifts not given. We will not fail; we will not forget you. May God Bless you and your family today and always.
Patricia & Charles Barraza
This is me now, dad.
Stephanie Parker
September 10, 2005
Well Dad, I'm 16 now, and I'm finally moving on and getting ready to live at home again. I made the honor roll last semester. I have a wonderful boyfriend Andrew that I wish you could meet. He takes good care of me. Sometimes I feel like the whole world has forgotten this day, and then sometimes I think that I might forget you someday too, and it scares me. I wonder if people have already forgotten that I'm connected to you.
I guess what I'm trying to say is that I miss you a lot and I need you. I need you now that I'm growing up and I'm graduating soon. But you're not here, and I am. And though you told me that life wasn't fair, and not to complain, I can't help but say that your death was an injustice and it WAS NOT FAIR.
... I guess after all the therapy I've endured these last 20 months I can finally say it. I was angry at you for awhile but now I'm okay. I need you dad, I really need you. I used to wait for you to show up at school and drive me home, when I was 13. Now I know that I'll just have to wait to see you again, but please find me.
I love you dad.
rebecca lullio
September 10, 2005
dear joan and steph,
i just wanted to let you know that i'll be thinking of you both tomorrow, and i hope youre doing well. hope to see you both soon. be strong. love you both, rebecca
Joan Parker
September 6, 2005
It's four years later, the anniversary is approaching and once again, I find myself here reading all the heartfelt entries from cherished family, friends and colleagues. This sight has become a safe haven that offers comfort, serenity and wonderful memories. You are here - I feel you come to life in each and every word that has been written about you. Time has given me a chance to readjust, realign and refocus the direction of my life. It has given me a chance for acceptance of the things I cannot change and a chance to learn how to live without you. Things are moving forward as they should. Stephanie and I grow each day in an effort to reconnect with one another and to embrace the changes this experience has forced upon us. The one constant in our lives is our love for you. As we move toward the opportunities that await us, we take you with us each and every day. Our struggles are less and our achievements are more. Our sorrow diminishes and our happiness grows. We both love you and miss you so much and want you to know you are forever in our hearts and thoughts. As we continue to live on, we do so with wonderful memories of you, our very funny, loving, compassionate Phil.
With love,
Joanie
Larry Maland
September 11, 2004
I was a childhood friend of Phil Parker from Smith School in second grade, into Tenafly High School. Although I moved away at 16, I came back and saw Phil from time to time. We were so close as kids, it was great to see him again about 10 years back on a trip to New Jersey.
Phil Parker was a great friend and banjo player. We were known as the Toads, and even had our own "toad call". We had great fun as kids mixing tunes and comedy with a tape recorder. Its great to read that it continued into his adult life, mixing music onto CD's.
My prayers are with his family.
By the way, my first son is named Phiip.
Larry Maland
David Christie
September 11, 2004
Dear Joan
While I think of you & Steph often, today, 9/11/04 you have both have been in my prayers as well. I knew Phil for a long time having first met him as a young man learning the reinsurance business at North American Re. I was fortunate to also have him as a colleague at Duncanson & Holt. But most importantly he was friend, a friend I truly miss. Moments ago I turned on the TV and came across the reading of names at Ground Zero. Strangely,they were at the "P's". Just hearing PHILLIP LACEY PARKER brought tears to my eyes and I am not embarassed at all, any more than I was three years ago at the Blawenberg Church. I hope both of you are well and coping as successfuly as possible. It's not easy.
Fondly,
Dave Christie
rachel morgenstern
September 9, 2004
Dear Stephanie,
Hey, It's Rachel from camp. I'll start off by saying i miss you a lot and I hope we start keeping in touch. Whenever I think about September 11, 2001, I always think about you and your family. I remember how I talked to you last September 11th and you seemed fine. You are a very strong person for realizing your dad is always with you.. in your heart and watching over you. I hope you will be this strong on Saturday. I never met you're father and I met you the year following this tragedy. In camp, you spoke of him like he was the best dad in the world!! I am sure he was, and in his eyes you were the best daughter! I love you and miss you Steph!! Love, Rachel 9/11 I WILL NEVER FORGET.
Rebecca Lullio
September 9, 2004
dear steph,
my mom showed me this page today and it made me think of you. i remember playing in your house as little girls and our parents having the time of their lives downstairs in the living room. i remember your dad as a good hearted, funny, and kind man. although you probably won't check this right away, just know that i am thinking of you and your mom on this day.
love always <3 rebecca lullio
mary parker
September 7, 2004
My name also is Parker,and I understand your sorry at losing a special person, you see my husband was a policeman killed in the line of duty, so I understand your pain of such a loss. My husband was also one of the good guys that everyone loved and admired. We have our memories forever. I'm sure Phil would be happy your learning to drive his prize...Best wishes, Mary.
Edd Erickson
February 23, 2004
Joan and Stephanie,
Altho ugh I never met either of you, I knew and worked with Phil for over 20 years, especially while he was with Hodson and Madison.
I was recently going through some boxes of all of the stuff I have collected in 25+ years in reinsurance (you collect an amazing amont of stuff in that many years) and I came across the attached photo of Phil. It's from an ad in Business Insurance from 1988, just before the NAII in Boston. I saved it because the ad was a breath of fresh air in a time when most ads were stale and overdone. I also saved it beacuse it was Phil. I hope you enjoy it.
Phil most certainly was one of the "good guys" in our business. I miss him and the others our industry lost that day.
Christina McCoy
December 31, 2003
I worked with Phil for 2 years. Within minutes of meeting him, I knew he was a special man. Kindness, compasion and warmth were only a few of his qualities. After only a short while Phil spoke of his wife and daughter. I could see the love in his eyes as he spoke of them. They were his life. The spark in his eyes was something you dont see very often in people any more. You just couldnt miss it! I never saw Phil angry or in a bad mood once. He loved his family and lived his life with enthusiasm and grace. We all loose a little something when a person of such caracter is taken from our world. Phil made the world a better place by setting an example of how to live. God bless his familiy.
Patricia Barraza
September 12, 2003
Daily I think of all of the wonderful people we lost that terrible day. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Stephanie, Thank you for the pictures. I knew your dad for a long time, he was a great guy. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a quick wit and he always made time to say hello and catch up. God Bless you and your family and of course, your dear dad.
Pat
Pam (Coyle) Hunt
September 11, 2003
Joan and Stephanie,
I went to Muhlenberg with Phil and think about him and his music all the time. My heart goes out to you on this difficult day. God bless you.
Sharon Stevens
September 11, 2003
Joan and Stephanie,
We are thinking of you today
and pray for you often.
Sharon, Tim, Matthew & Sara Stevens
Daniel Rocker
September 1, 2003
Hey Steph,
You know...you always got at least one person to talk to. And I'm only that phone call away.
Dan
Here We Are :)
Steph Parker
August 30, 2003
Man, I haven't read this thing in ages. It was really great to re-read everything everyone has written. It means a lot to my mom and I, as well as everyone else on here that's posted.
Out of sheer boredom I searched for Philip L Parker online... hoping that maybe something cool would come up. And some guy named Dave Parker, who nobody in my family knows, made a tribute for my dad.
Just because his name was "Parker".
I'd love to hear from anyone that wants to email me. Thanks for posting and to my dad--> I'm taking care of the guitar I promise. <3
And I know a lot of you worked with my dad so there's a photo update for you. Courtesy of me. Hehe.
Randi Seeley
May 2, 2003
I worked with Phil at Madison Intermediaries as his secretary and always looked forward to seeing him in the AON WTC office. He had a charming wit that he easily put to paper and pen. He made coming to work a joy. Heaven has an angel.
Joan Parker
March 26, 2003
I miss you still and love you more.
-Joanie
Bonnie Parker Prokop
September 23, 2002
I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Parker or his family, but it sounds like he was a wonderful man. I don't know what to say other than Mr. Parker's family are in my prayers. May you always be blessed with the good fortune of having Mr. Parker in each of your lives.
Glenn & Barby Jackson
September 13, 2002
As former neighbors of the Parkers, we often think of Phil, Joan and Stephanie. Phil was especially gifted at balancing his intellect, humor, generosity, love of family and duties to work. He made room for everyone who wanted to associate with him.
Thank you Phil for being a friend. We miss you.
Steven Baker
September 12, 2002
I ran across Phil's business card a few days ago. I'd thought about him many times over the last year.
To me and my family he represents our connection to this day. My children wanted to know early on if I knew anyone in the WTC and were they O.K. There were maybe 20 people I knew who had made it out at Guy Carpenter, but I also heard Phil was missing. They wanted to know more about Mr. Parker and what he was like and still do. They laugh when I say he had a fuzzy black caterpillar of a moustache and he loved to talk. They've since seen a picture and agree with the physical description. Eventually, they ask about his family and how they must be sad. It's a discussion that always ends with a prayer for Phil, his family, and all the other families affected.
Sometimes, the people we meet only tangentially make a difference in our lives. I'm sure Phil made a difference in many.
Peace be with you.
Robert, Nancy, Dustin, Laura Sutton
September 9, 2002
In memory of Phillip L. Parker
We did not know Phillip, but my husband is the brother of Cam Sutton who works for Aon. I came across this on the internet and wanted to express our deepest sympathy. I have thought of all the lives lost that day and especially of the ones from my brother-in-laws office and it still hurts deeply. Our deepest deepest sympathy to the family.
Nancy Sutton
Joanie
July 7, 2002
Your death has left a void that will only be filled by the memories of our wonderful life together. You were the best husband a woman could ever ask for, the best father a child could have, the best son and brother a father and sister could ever want.
What made you so special was your loyalty and incredible ability to love. Those of us who were lucky enough to have you in our lives now struggle with the impact your senseless death has had on us.
Your beautiful, warm eyes, your deep, melodious voice, your incredible mind and quick wit are forever planted in my heart.
I miss you every minute of every day. You never leave my thoughts.
Our time together was far too short. I could have been married to you another 100 years and it wouldn't have been enough. You were a great man and I am honored that you chose me to be your wife. I will love you always and will never understand why you were taken from us so soon.
You continue to live on in Stephanie. She has your eyes,your wit, your love of music and strength of spirit. You would be so proud of her, as am I.
Because you meant so much to us and so much to so many other people, we will strive to live on and honor your memory in the way that you deserve. I love you so very much.
Vincent Lullio
June 20, 2002
I worked for and with Phil since 1980. Phil, I miss you every day. Your wit, intelligence and friendship. You were in my office in NY on 9/11 and I was not. I don't get it.
Archie, Allyn and I replay 9/11 and we still cannot understand why we lost you. We are doing our best to look after Joan and Stephanie and your Father.
To those of us who really knew Phil, we were lucky. For those who never got past the big burly exterior , you missed out.
I will close as I started, " I miss you every day".
Will Musselman
May 30, 2002
It's been 33 years since Yingling and I sat in East Hall with Phil. A long time, but you don't forget someone like Phil. He was truly one of a kind, my condolences to his wife and daughter.
Judy Kass
April 11, 2002
My heartfelt sympathies to Joannie and Stephanie.....
I worked with Phil for 5 years at Madison Intermediaries. It was a wild ride with him, Carolyn, Gail, John, Allyn and Tom. We had great times together. Phil was always in the middle of the crowd. I remember coffee in the morning in his office and, let's not forget the lunches and drinks after work. It was great fun. Phil was a very special person. I am lucky to have known him.
Pat Harris
April 2, 2002
That horrible day I was also picking up my daughter in the MMS office as Joan, you waited for Stephanie. All I could think of was gathering my children around me after seeing the horrible images at work. I was struck by your composure as I overheard you say your husband was on a very high floor but was getting out. I never dreamed I would hear in our little country church one of our members did not make it out. Please know that you have a community around you that will always be there for you. Never hesitate to call on us.
Anonymous
March 21, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL MAN..PHILIP L.PARKER AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE..PRAY AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK FOREVER..MAY JESUS AND ST.PHILIP GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Brantley Harrison
March 17, 2002
Joan and Stephanie,
You both are in my heart and my prayers and I am so sorry for you great loss.
While I have never met you I think very highly of Leslie(Phils sister)
and my heart goes out to you and your family.
Brantley Harrison
Greenville SC
Stephanie Parker
January 26, 2002
Phil Parker was my dad. He was the coolest dad in the whole world to me and I'll never forget how cool it was when he used to drive me around everywhere in his MGB. He used to watch me play soccer too and he managed to teach me how to play a bit of guitar. I'll never forget him. He was the best to me.
William Hopkins
January 25, 2002
Joan:
I worked with Phil as a former Aon Re New York broker and competed against him once I moved to another firm later. Phil was always a joy to work with and compete against; a true gentleman and friend.
I was so very saddened upon hearing the news and wish you all the joy and happiness I know he would want you to have. He spoke often of you and your daughter and I am sorry we have never met.
I was so hopeful that I would be able to be at Phil's service and so disappointed when I learned of the conflicts that would keep me from being there. I understand it was beautiful.
He had many great friends and never brought anything but a smile to those he knew.
Best wishes,
Bill
Fred Shearer
January 21, 2002
It was a joy and a privilege to know Phil, to have the opportunity to do business with him, and to enjoy with him some of the moments of relaxation which our business allowed. I am sure I am not alone in having had encouragement and support from Phil - in my case both in business and with my interest in flying as well as my son's passion for guitar. We will both remember him with gratitude and share the grief of all whose lives he touched.
Maureen Caulfield
January 20, 2002
I keep a picture of Phil from a golf outing on my bookcase. On that afternoon, he taught me how to stike a tree with my club (to make the proper sound), whilst hand-pitching my burried ball onto the green. We were never that serious about the game and laughed all day and had a grand time of it. Golf was not important: having fun was.
Phil was a living lesson in perspective. He just understood the balance of life and got things right - always with an appropriate element humour in ups and downs.
I smile and I cry when I think of him. I smile for all the fond memories and for all he brought to so many people; I cry for the same reasons and for the loss of someone so special.
I cannot begin to understand the grief his family feels at his loss. No one can ever understand what they are going through. I keep you in my prayers, I cherish his memory amd think of you often, as so many of us do.
May God bless and keep you,
Maureen Caulfield
Swiss Re - London
Jose Torres
January 15, 2002
Joan,
Sorry that I couldn't be at the services, as I am now living in Bermuda. Although I hadn't seen Phil in a long time, Archie always kept me informed of his doings.
I'll always remember the wonderful times that we (Archie, you & Phil) used to have at North American Re.
He will be missed as a collegue and a friend.
Jeff Koenig
January 8, 2002
Dear Joan,
I had the pleassure of knowing Phil for a very short time when we both worked for G L Hodson. He was in NY and I was in Atlanta and at the time I recall Phil worked on the aviation book. I had just left active duty in the Marine Corps as a helicopter pilot and we struk up a frienship from our mutual interest in aviation. I was very sorry to hear of his death just today and I will always remember him as someone who loved life and lived it to the full. May God grant you His peace in the days and months ahead.
Sincerely,
Jeff Koenig
President & CEO
Premier Health Systems
Columbia, SC
Teresa Jahn
December 16, 2001
May Philip's enjoyment of music and cars, his life and love live on through Joan and Stephanie. We are very sorry for your loss of Philip. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Richard Hopkins
December 11, 2001
About 15 years ago, Tom Rentko and I were at ST Paul Re. We needed a strong and personable underwriter. Tom was promoting his good friend Phil. Tom and I met with Phil several times and I was won over. Aside from being intelligent and experienced, he came across as being very honest and one who could produce a great deal of business. He had a certain glint in his eyes and you could tell there was a great deal to this man. We tried our best to hire Phil and it is still one of my regrets that we failed. I am sure he was a great asset to Aon.
While I never met Phil's family, they are in my prayers.
Sadly, Dick Hopkins
Bill` Noval
November 12, 2001
On behalf of my firm and myself, the most heartfelt of condolences to Joan & Stephanie It was such a pleasure and honor working on your home together. You were one of the finest individuals I've known, and certainly the finest as a client. Our prayers and thoughts are with you & your family. You left the world a better place than you found it. A example we can all learn from.
Fondly,
Bill Noval
Kimberley Hess
October 29, 2001
In our thoughts and prayers here at Cambridge-Peoria, Il
Debbie Wilson
October 25, 2001
With heartfelt sympathy. I will never forget this sad and tragic loss.
Tom Chagaris
October 24, 2001
I grew up with Phil in Tenafly, NJ and we went through grades 1 through 12 together. We were very close through our childhood and I believe that we significantly influenced each others sense of humor. My deepest sympathies to Phil's family, his father and his sister. I feel like I lost a piece of myself. Phil was a good man.
Steve Jones Jr.
October 22, 2001
I consider myself both fortunate and grateful to have both worked and having been befriended by Phil Parker. I, like countless others, only wish I had more time to spend with him - he's one of those people you just don't forget.
Mark Wisneski
October 20, 2001
My condolences and memories to Phils family. I was a freshman at Muhlenberg College in 1968 and remember Phil as a teddy bear of a brother with a dry sense of humor. I pledged PKT in 1968-69. Strange that I should be living in NYC and working for American Airlines and should experience this loss. I heard through mutual good friend, Sandra Hulse that Phil lost his life in this terrible tragedy. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.
randal temple
October 19, 2001
We miss you every day - your humor was your legacy to our office.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Joan and Stephanie.
Here's to knowing you're in a better place!!!!
Laura Petticrew
October 19, 2001
I had the pleasure of working with Phil as his Admin Assistant for six years. Phil was one of the most intelligent, articulate, honorable and generous men I have ever known. He was deeply committed to his family, friends and his work. He revered "quality" and strove to achieve it in all he did. I miss him.
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