Greg Parker

Gregory "Greg" Parker, 75, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away on August 8, 2025, in Springfield, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 11, 1950, in Los Angeles, California, to Chalmer and Sylvia (Frank) Parker. Greg is survived by his wife of 40 years, Paula; his son Joshua Parker and wife Karen of Battlefield, Missouri, and their children Lane and Lauren; and his daughter Tia Schmitt and husband Mike of Springfield, Missouri, and their children Harlow and Elia. He is also survived by his siblings Ron Parker of Arcadia, Missouri; Pat (Mike) Piper of Kuna, Idaho; and twin brother Gary (Leota) Parker of Galena, Kansas; as well as sister- and brother-in-law Pam and John Whittaker of Republic, Missouri; along with several beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his best friends Rosco Reese and Mike Labertus; and his nephew, Daniel Piper. At the age of 12, Greg's family moved to the Willow Springs, Missouri, area to be closer to relatives, and later relocated to Mountain Grove, Missouri, where he graduated high school. In the early 1970s, Greg opened a bar on Commercial Street in Springfield called The Joint (now known as Lindburg's), creating a space filled with music, laughter, and friends. He later worked with the Missouri Division of Youth Services and at the Good Samaritan Boys Ranch and eventually retired as the Business Development Manager with Aire-Master of America - careers in which his hard work and good humor left a lasting mark. Greg loved the beach, Marvel movies and comics, Judge Judy, and cheering on his beloved Kansas City Chiefs. Known for his elaborate (and often "embellished") storytelling, his collection of cheesy dad jokes, and his ornery spirit, Greg brought joy, laughter, and a touch of mischief to every room he entered. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. at Ozarks Event Center, 842 Guin Rd, Nixa, MO 65714. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the 15 and the Mahomies Foundation or The Courageous Church, causes close to Greg's heart. https://gofund.me/a5b09a20 https://courageouschurch.churchcenter.com/giving Per his wishes, Greg's ashes will be scattered in the Gulf of Mexico at a later date. Though we grieve his passing, we celebrate a life well-lived - one filled with love, laughter, and just enough mischief to keep us on our toes.