Steven Joseph Parker

Steven Joseph Parker, of Post Falls, ID, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, at Hospice House of North Idaho on September 23, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on July 8, 1951 to Howard and Ruth Parker in Burbank, CA, Steve lived a life marked by kindness, joy, and devotion to his family. His early education took place at St. John's Military Academy in Los Angeles, CA, followed by his high school years at Chaminade Prep in Chatsworth, CA. He furthered his education at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, AZ. Steve proudly served in the US Coast Guard, where he embraced the discipline and camaraderie that defined his service. 

Professionally, Steve was deeply involved in the family business, Appliance Parts Co. in California before moving to Spokane in 1991 where he worked with Reliable Appliance Parts and was later an insurance agent for AAA in Spokane and Coeur d' Alene. His career was characterized by integrity and a strong work ethic. 

Family was the cornerstone of Steve's life. He married Jan Wellman in Tucson, AZ on November 22, 1975. Together they raised three children, Eric, Megan, and Lindsey in Oak Park, California where life often revolved around the backyard swimming pool. Steve took great pleasure in teaching the kids to swim at an early age, playing pool games with family and friends, and hosting pool parties where he enjoyed barbecuing for friends. Summers were known as the "watch me!" season, when he and Jan would be asked to watch a million different ways to go off the diving board. After moving to the Northwest, Steve cherished spending family time at Priest Lake, boating, and sitting around the campfire telling scary ghost stories and tales of marauding bears. An ardent Rams football fan and a lifetime golfer, Steve also had a knack for humorous and sometimes inappropriate one-liners, which became a beloved part of his legacy. Steve was an affable and jovial spirit, and a friend to everyone he met. 

Steve leaves behind his loving wife, Jan, of nearly 49 years, son Eric Parker (Lauren) and their children Joshua and Evelyn of Liberty Lake, WA; daughter Megan Mulholland and her children Claire and Brady of Naples, FL; and daughter Lindsey Moll (Chris) and their children Makenzie and Abbie of Greenacres, WA. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Allen of Spokane Valley, WA, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Steve was preceded in death by his father Howard F Parker, mother Ruth E Parker, and brother Howard F Parker Jr.

A Celebration of Life for Steve will be held at a later date. His life was one of warmth, laughter, and love, deeply touching all who knew him. His memory will be cherished in the hearts of his family and friends forever.