William E. Parker

Bill and all he meant to me will be missed until I join him.

A toast to Wild Bill Parker, he left a big, powerful mark!

Bill Parker was the one art teacher at UConn who absolutely understood the student as an individual. His connection to the student, from wherever they reached their process, was learned and direct. Beyond that, his humor and compassion shined bright.

The mind and the heart of Bill are forever with me.....and his smile is with both. Dearest friend, collaborator, "inspirationer". Humor, art, speaking, hugs, and so much more. As he taught: "just laugh!"

I have been thinking about my teacher a lot lately as I find the skills he taught so many years ago are more important now than ever. Thank you.

He was one of the funniest people I ever met. Bill always had a warm smile and an infectious laugh. He could light up the whole room and his jokes and stories were always engaging and hilarious.

As well as Bill Parker's formidable professional accomplishments, he had a keen insight into the persons who were his students. Forty-five years ago his advice to this young student, that I was, turned out to be pivotal in my life. Thank you for this opportunity to express my gratitude to my teacher, Bill Parker.

The mind and the heart of Bill are forever with me.....and his smile is with both