John "Jay" Parker

John A. "Jay" Parker, age 78, beloved husband of 56 years to Patricia E. Parker, nee Engdahl, passed away from this life on September 24, 2019. Jay was the loving father of Jeffrey (Sharon) Parker, Steven (Lisa) Parker and Susan (Brent) Ruffner. Cherished grandfather of Christopher (Allison), Alison, Jessica, Jennifer, Emily, John, Katherine, Karly and Kelsey. Devoted son of the late William and Cora (nee McConnell) Parker. Dear brother of the late William Harold (late Barbara) Parker Jr. Dearest brother-in-law of Priscilla (Richard) Carnaroli, Walter (Anne) Engdahl and the late Robert L. Engdahl. Much loved by many nieces and nephews, as well as close friends. Jay was born on January 14, 1941 and grew up in Moundsville, WV. He attended Lafayette College where he earned a B.S. in Civil Engineering and met Patricia Engdahl, who became his devoted wife. Jay was a Licensed Professional Engineer and retired from Chicago Bridge & Iron Company after 37 years of service. He was an avid reader and an Orland Park Library Board Trustee for over 25 years. He also was a member of Faith United Methodist Church and a Board Member of the Chesterfield Place Homeowners Association. Jay enjoyed spending the winter months in Ft. Myers, Florida with his friends and family. He was a beloved husband, father, Poppie, friend and a true West Virginia gentleman. He will be missed by all who were fortunate to know and love him. Visitation Friday, October 4, 2019 at Faith United Methodist Church, 15101 S. 80th Ave., Orland Park, IL 60462 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with a Memorial Service to follow at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jay’s name to: Spondylitis Association of America 16360 Roscoe Blvd., Suite 100 Van Nuys, CA 91406 or to Friends of the Orland Park Public Library 14921 Ravinia Ave. Orland Park, IL 60462 Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400