Marguerite Parker Obituary

Marguerite Catherine Robinson Parker, 83, of Leawood, Kan., born on October 23, 1933, in Philadelphia, PA, died peacefully in her home on October 20, 2017. Marguerite (known fondly by family and friends as "Margo") is predeceased by her parents, John Joseph and Marguerite Land Robinson; her brother, John Joseph Robinson Jr.; and her husband of 45 years, George Leidy Parker III, all of Philadelphia, PA. Although Margo and George were divorced, Margo was still bonded to him in love and concern for their 10 children.

Margo, first and foremost, was a selfless, devoted, patient, and generous mother, grandmother and great-grandmother to her 10 children, 24 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She lovingly performed the relentless driving, cooking, and care taking that goes with the role. She is remembered especially for her wry wit, unflappable competence, and impeccable style. Her grandkids will remember her for being the hippest grandmother around. And her kids will remember her for not taking herself - or them - too seriously, and for passing along the capacity for taking life as it comes with good humor, but rising to the occasion in challenging situations.

For many years Margo was a tireless and caring volunteer for the Shepherd's Center, the American Cancer Society, and The Children's Place. Other passions included antiques buying, selling, and appraising, and operated antiques shops in Kansas City and Prairie Village. Her gift for recognizing, acquiring, and displaying antique furniture and décor gave beauty and character to her home and her shops. She was also a gifted gardener, and a longtime movie buff.

Survivors include her 10 children: Molly Parker Sanders (Peter) of Stamford, CT; Ellen Parker of Seattle, WA.; George L. Parker IV, of Kansas City, MO; John J. Parker of North Bend, WA; Christine Parker Wilkerson of Lenox, MA; Susan Parker Wheeler of Leawood, KS; Elizabeth Parker Worley (David) of San Antonio, TX; Amy Parker Read (Mark) of Overland Park, KS; Laura Parker Kowalewich (Pete) of Leawood, KS; and Julie Parker O'Halleran of Chicago, IL.

A celebration of life memorial will be held at Margo's home on Sat., Dec. 30th. Family members and friends are warmly encouraged to join our collective celebration of Margo's remarkable life. For more information, contact Amy Parker Read at [email protected].

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to The University of Kansas Cancer Center (http://www.kucancercenter.org/give) or Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care (https://www.kchospice.org/donate-now/).