Paul J. Parker, age 65 of Durand, formerly of Red Wing, MN, died Thursday, September 15, 2022 at the St. Cloud VA Health Care System in St. Cloud, MN.

Paul was born on June 4, 1957 in Seattle, WA. He was the son of Rev. Keith C. and Lois M. (Gustafson) Parker. At a young age, Paul moved with his family to Eastern Minnesota and later to Roger City, MI. Paul graduated from Roger City High School in 1976. After high school, Paul joined the U.S. Navy where he served for 14 years in Hawaii and the Philippines, and he was honorably discharged. He then served in the reserves until his retirement. Paul married his wife Lydia in 1993. Paul lived in Red Wing and worked at Treasure Island Resort for many years. Paul and Lydia moved to Plum City for a short time before moving to Durand where he remained the rest of his life.

Paul was an avid sports fan, he was recently converted to a Green Bay Packers fan. He was well known for his puns and jokes and had a passion for animals, especially dogs. Paul had deep faith in his religion. Paul loved to spend time with family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

Paul is survived by his wife, Lydia; children, Jonathan of Mineral Ridge, OH and Catherine Parker of Elmwood; step-children, Lea Walls of Farmington, MN; Jeremiah (Lisa) Groth of Cannon Falls and Benjamin (Tammy) Sarazin of Red Wing, MN; 10 grandchildren, Kaitlyn; Cortney; Kody; Tiajannah; Mason; Mikayla; Aspen; Zaryana; Elise and Liam; two great grandchildren, Evelyn and Augustus; siblings, Cindy Parker of Columbia Heights, MN and James of Columbia Heights, MN; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, two grandchildren in infancy.

Memorial Services will be 1:00PM Saturday, September 24, 2022 at the Riverview Community Center, 606 W Madison St, Durand. Rev. Doug Vick will officiate. A meal and reception to follow.

Rhiel Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Durand, is serving the family.

Condolences

1. Cynthia Vincent September 20, 2022, at 11:53am

   I am very saddened to hear of my classmate's death and learning of your loss. May you find peace and healing in the days to come.

2. James Carson September 20, 2022, at 10:26am

   First I offer my condolences to the family in this dreadful time. Paul was a very good man, I treasure the memories of him, it brings a smile to me every time. My only regret that we never got to see each other in person again.

3. Antwon Howard September 20, 2022, at 9:46am

   You have my deepest condolences you will truly be missed he's was a great person

4. Nan morphew September 20, 2022, at 9:43am

   Paul was the bright spot in the day. He and his wife are some of the best people I have ever met. No doubt that the world will be a little darker now that he is gone. RIP. I hope he gets a suckered for his trip. Love you.

5. paul barkla September 20, 2022, at 7:47am

   I'm sadden to hear of Paul's passing. I had the great pleasure of working with the colonel at Walmart in Red Wing. Paul touched a lot of life though he devotion to his family and friends. I'm a better person, because of Paul. My thoughts, prayers and love to the Parker family.

6. Bilderback Arnold September 20, 2022, at 7:11am

   So sorry for your loss.

7. Deanne Howard September 19, 2022, at 10:22pm

   I am so sorry to hear of Paul's passing. He was my classmate when he attended Cook School in Cook MN and his father was the minister in the church I attended. Paul was a very kind soul.
   Sending heartfelt condolences to his family along with comfort and peace.
   Deanne (Flank) Howard

8. Janis Schaedig September 19, 2022, at 9:23pm

   Sincere sympathy to the family of Paul. He was a classmate of mine, graduating the same year. Prayers of comfort and hope to be reunited in Christ!

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