Clifford L. Parker

Clifford L. Parker, 94, of Ottawa, passed away Thursday, May 29, 2025, at his home in Ottawa.

Cliff was born September 5, 1930 in Marseilles, Illinois to William L. and Leatha May Scott. He married Dolores Bolton May 13, 1950 at the Marseilles Methodist Church. They were blessed with 69 wonderful years together. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, friend and dedicated member of his community. He was a faithful member of Crossbridge Community Church.

Cliff was a U.S. Navy veteran having served on the USS Bache destroyer during the Korean War. During his time serving his country, he traveled to 13 countries.

After serving in the Navy, he worked for Caterpillar for 33 years and continued to serve his country as a volunteer firefighter for the City of Ottawa for more than 32 years. He was one of the original founders of the Ottawa River Rescue Squad and served 10 years as a charter life member.

Cliff was a devoted and proud member of the American Legion for 65 years where he held numerous positions including: Post #33 Commander; LaSalle County Commander; Membership Commander; 12th District Commander; 100 Percent Membership Commander; Aide to 2nd Division Commander, Department of Senior Vice Commander and Department of Illinois Commander; Historian to 12th District and for 2nd Division. He also established the American Legion Post #33 traveling Color Guard and was a member of the Ottawa Memorial Association where he served many positions including President and Trustee. For many years he coordinated the Memorial Day and Veterans Day programs for the City of Ottawa. He was awarded Illinois Veteran of the Month in 2008 by Governor Rod Blagojevich. Cliff was able to be included in an Honor Flight to Washington, DC and tour the war memorials in 2022.

Cliff was a proud father and grandfather. He was always present and loved attending his grandkids school events including sports and recitals. He and his wife Dolores were avid travelers and often enjoyed camping as a family. He was an outdoorsman and conservationist who enjoyed fishing and hunting with his son and grandkids. He helped establish the Boy Scout Troop #44 and served as Scoutmaster for 26 years. During his time as Scoutmaster, 14 boys earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

Cliff is survived by his son, Randall (Rene) Parker; three grandchildren, Jeffery (Jennifer) Parker, Jessica (Brad) Bell and Stephanie (R.T. McPhee) Parker; two great-grandchildren, Kyler and Kamryn Parker; his brother, Wayne Parker; along with many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Dolores, parents and step-mom Viola; his son Clifford L. Parker, Jr.; and sister, Betty Franzetti.

Funeral services will be 10 AM Friday, June 13th at Crossbridge Community Church with Pastor Sherry Stevenson officiating. Interment will follow at Sheridan Cemetery with Military Honors by the American Legion Post 33 Honor Guard. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 PM Thursday, June 12th at Gladfelter-Roetker Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family to be given to organizations that Cliff supported. To share a memory, please visit www.gladfelter-roetker.com <http://www.gladfelter-roetker.com>

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