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Parker Smith

September 9, 1933 - August 14, 2020

Parker Allen Smith, 86, passed away from natural causes on August 14, 2020. Parker was born on September 9, 1933, in Algona, Iowa to Harold and Edith (Blum) Smith. He graduated from Plainfield High School where he was a two-sport letterman in basketball and baseball. He had a long and successful career in the grocery business, managing several stores before owning his own store, Smith’s Super Valu in Garner, for 12 years.

Parker married his high school sweetheart, Mary Joan Schmadeke, on July 19, 1953. He is survived by Mary Jo; four children, Douglas (Marion), Brenda, Drew (Sue), and Scott (Deb); six grandchildren, Justin (Meta) Topp, Shannon, Rachel, Whitney (Craig) Bellinghausen, Alex, and Kyle (Lizz); two step-grandchildren, Natalie and Daniella Strasburg; four great-grandchildren, Ashleigh Topp, Aimee Topp, Parker Jayne Topp, and Lincoln Bellinghausen; and brother, Claire.

Parker had four major loves—his family, sports, woodworking, and his dog, Nitro. Whether he was watching his beloved Chicago Bears or Iowa State Cyclones, building a doll cradle, bird feeder, or miniature lighthouse, or spending time with his family, his humility and sense of humor were always present. It was not about him and even his jokes usually ended at his own expense. His family will greatly miss his sly grin, dry wit, caring nature, and the warmth with which he engaged others.

The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the staff at Millpond for the care provided to their husband, father, and grandfather.

A memorial service will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2020 at Memorial Services of Iowa (4208 N. Ankeny Blvd). In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the American Heart Association or the American Parkinson Disease Association.