Vern L. Parker

Vern Lee Parker, age 91, passed away peacefully at Eagle Point in Appleton, Wisconsin on October 17, 2025.

Vern was born on June 8, 1934, in Appleton, Wisconsin, to loving parents Lee and Gertrude (Brauer) Parker. He graduated from Appleton High School in 1952 and continued his education at the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in geography. During his college years, Vern was a proud member of the Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. His studies were briefly paused while he honorably served two years in the U.S. Army, working as a surveyor in Nara, Japan.

On September 7, 1957, Vern married Marjorie Parker, with whom he shared 68 wonderful years. Together, they built a loving home on the north side of Appleton, where they raised their two children. Later, they settled on the south side, remaining deeply devoted to their cherished community even after their children had grown.

Vern’s lifelong passion for boating began in his youth, when he raced a homemade boat as a member of the Wisconsin Stock Outboard Boat Racing Association. As an adult, he spent many weekends with family aboard his cabin cruiser on Lake Winnebago. In his later years, Vern found immense joy in teaching his grandchildren to fish, nurturing in them his love for the water and the outdoors.

Vern dedicated his career to highway construction management, serving first with Parker Construction and later Fox Valley Construction, where he oversaw the building of highways across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. After retiring from his primary career, he took on a position as maintenance supervisor at UW Fox Valley, easing into retirement while continuing to contribute to his community.

Upon retiring in 1993, Vern embraced a life filled with cherished hobbies and family activities. He found great satisfaction in woodcarving, fishing, biking, and walking, and took pride in supporting his grandchildren’s pursuits. Vern was an engaged member of the Mid-Wisconsin Chippers Club and also shared his expertise as a songbird carving instructor at the Thompson Center. Vern became a distinguished Master Woodcarver, creating more than 389 intricate carvings of birds, wildlife, and whimsical figures — artistry that will remain as a lasting testament to his creativity and gentle spirit.

Vern is survived by his two children, Kevin (Cindy) Parker of Green Bay, WI and Karin (Tom) DeLaitsch of Ellicott City, MD; four grandchildren, Megan and Kyle Parker and David and Andy DeLaitsch; and his brother, Thomas. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie; his brother, Robert; and his grandson, Tommy DeLaitsch.

The Parker family extends heartfelt thanks to Unity Hospice and the compassionate staff at Eagle Point for their dedicated support and care during the past few years and during his final days.

A funeral visitation will be held for Vern on Friday, October 31 at Wichmann Funeral Home, 537 N. Superior St., Appleton from 9:30 AM until the time of service at 11:00 AM. He will be laid to rest at Highland Memorial Park.

Vern’s gentle spirit, lasting optimism, and heartfelt devotion to his loved ones left a profound mark on all who knew him. His legacy of kindness, gratitude, and quiet strength will continue to inspire family and friends. Vern will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

Memorials may be directed toward Our Saviour’ s Lutheran Church, Appleton, or the Mary Beth Nienhaus Activity Center – Creative Arts Program, Appleton.