Fredrick Roswell Parker Jr.

Fredrick R. Parker, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on April 27, 1948, Fred was the eldest son of Fredrick R. Parker, Sr. and Lila (Roby) Parker, and one of seven children in a close-knit family.

With the exception of his military service, Fred spent his entire life in the heart of Iowa, where he built lasting relationships and contributed to the strength of his community. Fred graduated from Martensdale-St. Marys High School in the Class of 1966 and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Navy upon graduation. He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War. While stationed in South Korea, Fred's life was forever changed when he met Im Son Lee. Their love blossomed across cultures and continents, and they were later married, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with both challenges and joy.

Fred made a living working in the carpentry field, whether that entailed building houses, roller coasters, or cabinets. However, Fred's talents were not only limited to wood working: He also built engines and model airplanes–tending to the precision needed to be successful at both. In addition, Fred enjoyed camping and fishing with his family, and for several years, he was a Little League baseball coach who devoted hours of mentoring to over 100 boys. Even in his final days, he looked upon those years fondly and could name every boy on his teams.

Fred is survived by his wife of 54 years, Im Son; his two daughters, Tammy (Brian) Daugherty of Schererville, Indiana, and Jennifer (Scott) Jeffrey of Redwood Falls, Minnesota; grandsons, Sam, Oliver and Elijah Jeffrey, all of Redwood Falls, Minnesota; sisters, Cheryl Sinclair of Des Moines, Iowa, and Lucinda Parker of Johnston, Iowa; brothers, Richard (Laura) Parker of Monroe, Iowa, and James (Debbie) Parker of Martensdale, Iowa. In addition, he leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews, cousins, double cousins, and his good friend David Dobson.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Fredrick R. Sr. and Lila Parker; his sister, Judith Parker; his brother, Bill Parker; and his beloved furry companion Anny.

Funeral services for Fred R. Parker Jr, will be held 10 a.m., Wednesday, December 10, at Overton Funeral Home. Visitation will be held one hour prior to service from 9 to 10 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors will be held in the Wallace Cemetery, Wick, following services at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, Fred's final wishes were that his friends and family support either Kiya Koda Humane Society of Indianola or UnityPoint Hospice of Des Moines.

Fred will be remembered not only for his dedication and courage but also for the stories he shared of his Navy days and the enduring love he held for his family. Fred's legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.