Robert Parker

Robert Adair Parker, 71, of Minneapolis, MN, died peacefully Friday, May 4, 2012 at the Edina Care Center in Edina, MN, where he had been a resident for the past five years.

He was born February 6, 1941 in Cavalier, North Dakota to Marcella (Jacobson) and James F. Parker. He grew up in Minneapolis and graduated from Central High School in 1959.

After graduating from Central High School and attending Hamline University, Bob began working in the accounting department for Rayette, a cosmetics manufacturer in New York City. At age 29, he returned to Minneapolis and lived on Bald Eagle Lake, near White Bear Lake. During these years, he worked at Canterbury Downs in the summer and Derby Lane in St Petersburg, Florida in the winter. In the mid-80's, he began working at the Gay 90's in Minneapolis, managing their lottery, pull tabs and tobacco businesses. He retired to his home on Elliot Avenue in South Minneapolis at age 62. He enjoyed his later years spending time with Paul, his cats and relaxing around his home, watching television and visiting with neighbors.

Survivors include three brothers, James "Garry" Parker of Blaine, MN, Doug Parker of Chippewa Falls, Charles (Nancy) Parker of St. Petersburg, FL; sister-in-law, Marilyn (Rick) Bach of Eagan, MN; his best friend, Paul Hoffman of Minneapolis; nephews and nieces, James H. Parker, David Parker, both of Minneapolis, Elizabeth Parker of Coon Rapids, MN, Steve (Vicki) Parker of Wyoming, MN, Stephanie (Tim) Price of Coon Rapids, Julie (Roland) Peak of Carver, MN, Stacy (Kirt) Pickerign of Chippewa Falls, Michael Parker of Eagan, and Jeffrey Robert Parker of Denver, CO; and many grand-nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, John M. Parker; sisters-in-law, Margot and Ruth Parker.

A private family graveside service will be held at Acacia Park Cemetery in Eagan, MN.