Ira R. Parker

Ira Richard Parker, age 83, of Walker, Michigan, formerly of Belding, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at U of M West-Metropolitan Hospital in Byron Center. He was born on January 26, 1942, son of Carlton E. and Goldie V. (Race) Parker, both of whom preceded him in death. He graduated from Cedar Lake Academy and worked for many years in machine repair and maintenance for McInerny Spring and Wire, then later for specialty furniture manufacturers Douglas PlyCurve and Davidson Plyforms. He married Judy L. Sower on November 4, 1961, with whom he owned and operated Mama Parker’s Pizza in Belding for many years. Judy preceded him in death on July 12, 1997. Later he married Sally (Smith) Workings on August 11, 2001, and she survives. Ira was a good man, a great father, grandfather, and best husband, who loved his family whole heartedly. He lived with purpose and integrity, worked hard, and instilled a strong work ethic and respect for others into the hearts of his children. He was loved and respected by many and will always be fondly remembered and dearly missed.

In addition to his dear wife, Sally, he is survived by his children, Angela (Mike) Bannister of Belding, Richard E. Parker of Baldwin, and Ronald L. (Kelli) Parker of Gaylord; grandchildren, Kayla R. Bannister of Belding, Drew (Lela Dobrzelewski) Parker of Gaylord and Avery Parker of Gaylord; Sally’s children, Steve (Jan) Workings, Mike (Judy) Workings, Monica (Bill) Stock; and Sally’s grandchildren Kelly (Eric) Jansen, Ken (Joe Masucci) Workings, Ariel Workings, and Michael Workings; and Sally’s great grandson, Kai; sisters Beverly (Bob) Slock and Berniece (Chuck) Anderson: two Grand-dog’s, Koji and Bear; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Barbara Slater and a brother Carly Parker.

Visitation and Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Smyrna Bible Church, 4864 Whites Bridge Road, Belding, Michigan 48809, with Pastor Roger Tahtinen officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and the Service will begin at 11:00 a.m. Private interment rites next to his first wife, Judy, will take place at Green Cemetery, Belding.

Memorial contributions are recommended to The “B” Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Association. Envelopes will be available at the service or by contacting the funeral home. Verdun Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service is serving the family and may be contacted at (616) 794-1300 or verdunfh.com.