Jerry’s life began on Dec. 15, 1948, in South Bend, Ind., the son of Harlow and Dimple (Carter) Parker.

Jerry, 61, was a 1967 graduate of Dowagiac Union High School.

Later he went back to earn a degree in the medical sciences.

He proudly pursued a career in the field of medical radiology, first as an X-ray technician, then as a registered radiologist and finally as a registered CT Technician – a position he held for more than 15 years at Lakeland Hospital in Niles.

He was united in marriage to Glenda Grant on Oct. 22, 1984, in Dowagiac.

He honorably served his country in the U.S. Army. Jerry was a deacon at First Christian Church in Dowagiac. He was a very avid golfer and he enjoyed playing many types of sports.

His love of sports stemmed from his accomplishments in his high school years.

Jerry’s greatest accomplishment was being a proud and devoted husband, father and grandfather. His loving family includes: his wife, Glenda of Dowagiac; sons Erik (Kathleen) Parker of Hartford and Justin “Gus” Parker of St. Joseph; step-son, Michael (Trish) Grant of Dowagiac; step-daughters, Tricia Bussler of Niles, twins Melissa Grant of Gulf Port, Miss., and Melinda Grant of Dowagiac; grandchildren, Brett, Bailey, Tyler, Jayden, Justin and Leslee; his sister, Barbara (Donald) Snyder of Niles; and his brother, Duane (Mary Jo) Parker of Benton Harbor.

Jerry passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 29, 2009, at his home.

He was preceded in death by: his parents, Harlow and Dimple Parker; his brother, Bill Parker; and his sister-in-law, Anjean Parker.

His family will gather with friends Monday from 10 to 11 a.m. at Yazel and Clark Chapel, where his memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. led by Pastor Jon Den Houter. In keeping with Jerry’s wishes, in lieu of flowers he requested memorial contributions made to First Christian Church, 121 Oak St., Dowagiac, MI 49047. Please sign his guestbook and leave a memory of Jerry at www.yazel-clark.com.