Joan Parker

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joan S. Parker, a beloved wife, mother, and steadfast friend, who left us on September 10, 2024.

Joan was born on December 30, 1953, in Marshfield, WI, to William and Lucille (Brock) Voight. She married Michael Parker on March 28, 1976 in Milladore.

Joan spent her professional life as a production worker at ODC in Wisconsin Rapids, a job she retired from after 14 years. Her dedication to her work and her commitment to her community were unwavering.

Joan found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved to delve into the worlds created by the authors of the books she read and enjoyed the thrill of finding hidden treasures while antiquing. But her true passion was crocheting, a skill she used not just for personal pleasure, but to spread joy and comfort to others. Joan lovingly crocheted countless teddy bears, donating them to the Shriners and other charities. Even the local animal shelters benefited from her generosity, receiving catnip toys she crafted. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, "The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well." Joan lived this truth every day, consistently putting others before herself, and making a difference in many lives.

Joan is survived by her husband, Michael Parker of Wisconsin Rapids; son, William Parker of Wisconsin Rapids; brother, William (Kathy) Voight of Milladore; sister, Judy Peck of Wisconsin Rapids; and her beloved dog, Everest. She is preceded in death by her parents, William and Lucille Voight; brother-in-law, Eugene Peck; her beloved dog, Bacon; and many other fur babies who have crossed over the rainbow bridge. As Elisabeth Kubler-Ross said, "The reality is that you will grieve forever. You will not 'get over' the loss of a loved one; you will learn to live with it." The void Joan leaves behind will forever be felt, but the love and memories she shared will continue to inspire and guide us.

To honor Joan's wishes, no public service or visitation will be held. Her son, William, will have a memorial Christmas tree on display at the South Wood County Historical Museum adorned with her last bears, catnip toys, and award-winning monkey she crocheted. Please visit the museum around Christmas time to enjoy this special remembrance of Joan.

We encourage friends and family to share their memories of Joan and to upload photos to her memorial page. Each story and image will serve as a testament to Joan's remarkable life and legacy. Let us remember her not with sadness, but with gratitude for the joy and love she brought into our lives.