March 4, 2025
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Wally L. Parker, an absolute gem of a man, who left this world far too early at the age of 68, having lost his fight with cancer. Wally passed away on March 4, 2025, with his loving and devoted wife by his side. Born in Revelstoke, B.C., Wally followed in the footsteps of his Dad and Grandfather, working as a trainman/engineer for most of his life. Wally was a devoted father, and he loved his wife, family (and his dog) with all his heart.
He enjoyed riding motorcycles, driving sports cars, listening to music, watching movies, sharing his humor, undertaking intellectual pursuits, solving perplexing problems, engaging in philosophical discussions, and enjoying vacations in warm destinations. With his kind manner, big blue eyes, and sharp mind, Wally made quick and easy friends with almost everyone he met throughout his life.
He will always be very lovingly remembered and sorely missed. He is survived by his wife Beverly Parker (Sawka); his parents Lillian and Sidney Parker; his Parker children Amy and Daniel (Cathiline) (grandchildren Sofia and Adam); siblings - Leasa Parker-Dunlop (Jim Dunlop) - Tracey Parker - and Derek Parker; stepchildren - Ashley Hemmerling (grandchildren Damien, Brody and Chantelle) - Lexy Barnard - Kyle Chwiendacz - and Tina Chwiendacz; mother-in-law Joan Parsons-Sudom; brother-in-law Lance Sawka; extended family mother-in-law Linda Sawka - sisters-in-law Michelle Sawka-Ayers (Jeremy) - Lindsey Sawka-Valair (Brad); and many other relatives.
What would otherwise be a dark path ahead is instead lit by the privilege and honour of having had Wally - this amazingly witty, colourful, humorous, charming, intelligent, passionate and incredibly decent human being - in our lives for the short time we did. We ask that his friends and relatives hoist a drink or gather together wherever you are to remember him and make a toast in his honor.