James W. Parker

PARKER, Mr. James W.
Kalamazoo, MI Passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and children Sunday morning January 31, 2010 at his residence. James was born October 5, 1936 in Vincennes, Indiana a son of Wallace and Roma Hendricks Parker. Jim was a dedicated husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed traveling, camping, family and friends. Jim enjoyed talking and listening to all people, never met a stranger. He had been a Kalamazoo area resident since 1957 and was employed with Graphic Packaging for 45 years, retiring in 2003. For many years he owned Parker Photo. He was also a member of Westwood United Methodist Church; longtime Craftsmen's Club; and the Western Michigan University Printing Department Advisory Board. James was preceded in death by his parents; 3 sisters, Edith Ice, Lois Phelps, and Thelma McPeake; and his mother and father-in-law, Florine and Richard Batchelor. On January 18, 1958, he was united in marriage to Carolyn L. Batchelor who survives. Also surviving, 2 children, Linda Randall Button Hampshire of Portage and Richard Anita Parker of Westminster, CO; 4 grandchildren, Aaron, Allison, Sarah, and Elijah; 3 sister, Carla Harry Mund of Alabama, Vera Evans of Florida, and Alma Robert Brian of North Carolina; a sister-in-law, Jane Gary Waite of Kalamazoo; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. A memorial service celebrating Jim's life will be held 12:30 Monday at the Westwood United Methodist Church, 538 Nichols Rd. Friends may meet the family one hour prior to the service at the church. In accordance with Jim's wishes, Cremation has taken place. Private graveside services will be in West Cooper Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be directed to Hospice Care of Southwest Michigan or Westwood United Methodist Church. A special thank you to Pam, Noel, Rhonda and Dr. Grambau. Arrangements were made by the Langeland Family Funeral Homes, Memorial Chapel, 622 S. Burdick St. www.langelands.com . 343-1508.