William Parker ’52, a loyal and active member of the Chapman Family, passed away on January 21, 2022. He was 93.
Parker and his wife, Barbara ’64, his Chapman sweetheart who passed away last year, were regular attendees at university events, especially athletic events, often visiting the Orange campus every week during baseball season. Recalling Bill’s commitment to sports specifically, Dave Currey, the university’s athletic director for 25 years prior to his 2016 retirement, said, “We lost a Chapman Athletics icon. Bill was not only a supporter but was a link to all of Chapman’s success on the athletic fields. He was a tremendous, loyal booster of Chapman Athletics. When tough times came, Bill was always there with a positive boost.”
The Parkers showed their love for the Chapman Family through their generous support, making donations toward Chapman Athletics, student scholarships, Town & Gown, the alumni association, Leatherby Libraries, Fish Interfaith Center and each of the university’s schools and colleges.
In addition to his financial support, Parker served on multiple groups and boards, and he and Barbara regularly volunteered at Chapman events, such as the annual Candle Lighting Ceremony for new students, and they hosted hundreds of students at their home for meals through the years.
Though he will be missed dearly, Bill’s memory and spirit remain on our campus through the Bill and Barbara Parker Atrium Lobby. As he and Barbara arranged many years ago, his ashes will be interred within the Columbarium of the Fish Interfaith Center, beside his late wife, so that Chapman Family members and friends might all have a place in which to gather and reflect on their lives.
“I send my sincerest condolences to his whole family and all who knew and loved him,” said President Daniele C. Struppa. “He will always be remembered at Chapman, and I feel certain that Bill and Barbara are together again right now, cheering passionately for each and every one of our students.”
