Michael Parker

Michael Scott Parker, 52, of Baxter, died Sunday, September 21, 2014 at Essentia Health - St. Joseph's Medical Center in Brainerd. A Celebration of Mike's Life will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, September 27 at the Brenny Funeral Chapel in Baxter. Family and friends are invited to gather Friday evening from 5-7 PM and one hour prior to services on Saturday. Interment will be private.

Mike was born May 27, 1962, in Brainerd, the son of Dwight and Shirley (Eblen) Parker. After graduating from Brainerd High School, Mike attended Central Lakes College for a year. He then enlisted in the US Air Force where he served for four years. Mike was a giver. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for anyone. He was passionate about helping others and it was evident in all he did. His natural warmth and magnetic personality made many friends. He loved to play Santa Claus - and did so not only for his nieces and nephew but also for private parties, apartment building families, day care centers and many more. He was very proud of his accomplishments as Commander of the American Legion in Nisswa. Mike's family was so important to him. He loved to spend time with his brother and sister and their families - cherishing being "Uncle Mike". Five years ago he married Cindy Crider and was blessed to accept her and her children into his life - and later two little grandchildren he adored. He was a man who loved life and his good attitude and happy nature will be dearly missed by all the lives he touched.

Mike is survived by his wife, Cindy; his dad, Dwight; step-children, Lindsay (Peter) Whicker, Christina (Mark) Mireles, Brady McCalla, William Bachel, and Matthew Bachel; grandchildren, Sophie and Bryson; brother, Tom (Michele) Parker; sister, Debbie (Art) Sanbeck; and nieces and nephew, Anna, Alec, Madisyn, and Meghyn. He was preceded in death by his mom, Shirley.