Alden Russell Parker, MD

June 02, 1929 - November 11, 2016

Alden Russell Parker, MD Obituary (Age 87) Alden Parker, beloved father, doctor, and musician, died in his sleep at Rockwood Retirement Community on November 11, 2016; he was 87. Alden was born on June 2, 1929 in Wayne, Michigan, where he lived until attending Oberlin College. He attended medical school at the University of Michigan, where he met his first wife Mary Abrams. After finishing medical school and a residency in Dermatology, he served as a doctor in the U.S. Navy for 2 years while living in Alexandria, Virginia. In 1961, Alden, Mary and their 3 young children drove across the country to Spokane, Washington, where Alden started his private dermatology practice, which he continued until retiring in 1991. The practice of medicine was an act of service for Alden, continuing the tradition of his father and grandfather of providing medical care to all in need. Alden was well-regarded among his colleagues, and served as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Washington School of Medicine, delivering lectures for many years. He was appreciated by his patients for his expertise, careful listening, and kind demeanor. Alden loved barbershop music. He began singing in high school and was a member of numerous quartets throughout his life. He joined the Spokane Pages of Harmony in 1961, where he became known, affectionately, as Doc. He served as a performer, director, and coach, but is best known as an arranger, crafting hundreds of musical arrangements for quartets and choruses locally and across the country. Alden was an avid runner logging thousands of miles over 5 decades and continued as a walker into his later years. He also loved sailing, children, stylish cars, and reading. He was devoted to his family and was well known for his sense of humor, love of words, and intellect. Alden was preceded in death by his parents Albert Russell Parker, MD and Frances Gage Parker, and his older brother Hayes. He is survived by three siblings and their spouses Alice Webb (Lee), John Parker (Fran), and Jim Parker (Barb), all of Michigan; his children and their spouses Matthew Parker (Amy) of Johnson City, NY, Betsy Hammond (Doug) of Spokane, WA, Melissa Parker of Spokane, WA, and Andrew Parker (Hannah) of Seattle, WA; 7 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren. In his final years, Aldens greatest joy came from being with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. He was also heartened daily by the warmth and kindness of the Rockwood staff and residents. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 11, at 2:00 PM at Rockwood South Hill Retirement Community. Donations may be made in Aldens name to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, Planned Parenthood Spokane Health Center, or Spokane County United Way.