Joel Anthony Parker

1953 - 2025

Joel Anthony Parker was born on December 17, 1953, in Aberdeen, South Dakota and he passed away unexpectedly on November 18, 2025, a month shy of his 72nd birthday. Joel was one of 15 children born to Gordon and Rita (Gage) Parker and he was proud of the fact that he was number 7. He was predeceased by his parents and four siblings. He is survived by his wife Karen, ten siblings, 40 nephews and nieces, 74 great nephews and nieces and 4 great-great nephews and nieces. Joel loved his large family and was adored by his nieces and nephews, who referred to him as the favorite uncle.

Joel attended Central Washington where he obtained his degree in Technology & Industrial Education with an emphasis on woodworking. He was an accomplished woodworker. He made two grandfather clocks, Adirondack chairs, beautiful cutting boards and, most recently wacky birdhouses.

Joel was a teacher for 17 years teaching at Napavine High School and then Clover Park High School. He left the teaching profession in 1994 and opened his own building design business, Parker Drafting Service, which he had until his death. Joel focused his business on drawing plans for remodels, additions, decks, new homes, garages and ADU's. Many family members and friends benefited from his skills.

Joel was also an accomplished pilot. He obtained his pilot's license in 1988 and was endorsed on four different aircraft. He loved the freedom flying provides (no stop signs) and the discipline it takes from takeoff to touch down. He loved flying in Western Washington but also flew in Oregon, Colorado and Wisconsin.

Joel met Karen Strombom when he joined her co-ed softball team in the spring of 1985. One of the first things he did was to ask her if she wanted him to teach her how to throw the softball right. That line worked. They were married on July 26, 1986. They had 39 wonderful years together. They traveled to 40 countries and recently returned from a safari in Kenya. Joel had a happy, successful, fulfilling life and he will be greatly missed.

A Mass and Celebration of Life will be held on December 11th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrew Catholic Church in Sumner, Washington. To celebrate Joel's love for his paradise, the Hawaiian islands, the family asks attendees to wear Hawaiian attire in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that memorial contributions be directed to Wounded Warriors Project or St. Joseph's Indian School in Chamberlain, S.D., two organizations and causes close to Joel's heart.

To read Joel Parker's full obituary, share your condolences, or leave a message of comfort for the family, please visit https://www.scanlincremationandburial.com/listings.