Michael John Parsons

Michael John Parsons, 59, passed away December 2, 2024, in Topeka, Kansas. Born on July 31, 1965, in Lafayette, Indiana to parents John Richard Parsons and Carolyn Louise (Cilek) Parsons, he lived a life bringing cheer, laughter and care to everyone.
He was one of four children, growing up in Iowa alongside Laurie, Lisa, and Jeffrey. Mike graduated from Burlington Community High School in 1983 before furthering his studies at Northeast Missouri State University in Kirksville, Missouri (now called Truman State University, which he frequently termed "The Harvard of the Midwest") where he was a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity. He also worked at many television stations and became certified as a polygraph examiner before working at Lansing Correctional Facility. Mike and Deborah Silvius were married for 25 years and blessed with daughters Baylee and Sydnee and bonus daughter Jessica (Lanzrath) Glenn. Mike had a career as a Program Manager for DCCCA and was a long-term volunteer throughout Kansas at Camp Hope, TOPSoccer, and dressing up as Santa for families all over. His greatest joy was found spending time with his daughters, granddaughter Harper, and dog Jackpot.
Mike loved his family and friends and never knew a stranger. Throughout his life, he touched countless lives through soccer where he was Coach Bubbles or Doughboy. His athletes were treated like his own daughters, and he made everyone feel welcome. Mike also always leant a helping hand. There was no task too big or small for him; a reliable ride, a warm smile, showing up early to set up, taking thousands of pictures for his daughters' soccer teams, and countless others. Everyone who knew Mike, was blessed to have known and be loved by him. He will be greatly missed but his joy will be carried on by his daughters and granddaughter.
A celebration of life will be held for family and friends on December 15, 2024, at the Lake Shawnee Garden House from 1:00 to 4:00 PM beginning with a few words from the family followed by an open house celebration. Mike was preceded in death by his parents John and Lynne. He is survived by his daughters Jessica, Baylee, Sydnee; siblings Laurie Harre, Lisa Wood and Jeffrey Parsons; former wife and best friend Deb Silvius and his granddaughter Harper Glenn. Memorial contributions may be made in Mike's name to Camp Hope (renamed KyMel). Topeka Chapel Oaks Cremation & Funeral Services is honored to serve the family.