Dave Parker, political consultant, world traveler, storyteller, friend and seeker departed this world May 6, 2017 at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, Montana.
Dave was born April 10, 1963 in Newport Beach, California to Harbison and Helen (Rich) Parker. Growing up he lived in several communities on the west coast, graduating high school in Cottage Grove, Oregon.
Looking to find a deeper understanding of this life, Dave attended Central Christian College of McPherson, Kansas, graduating in 1983 with an Associate Degree in Youth Ministry.
His early work career was marked by a number of vocations, most notably working in hotel management, starting in the auditing department at the Los Angeles Beverly Hills Hotel. Dave lived and worked in a variety of places and while working in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Dave met the love of his life, Alice Straub, of Plevna, Montana. They moved to Eugene, Oregon, where they were married in 1991.
Sharing a desire to live in Big Sky Country, Dave and Alice moved to Missoula in 1992, where Dave received a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. While studying at the University of Montana, Dave discovered his passion—and aptitude—for progressive politics, which he pursued for the rest of his life. He began as a legislative consultant for the Montana Democratic Party in 1994, and in 1996 managed Nancy Keenan’s successful re-election for Montana’s Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Dave wholeheartedly embraced the transient lifestyle that often accompanies a career in politics. He worked for a variety of races and causes all across the country. In 1998, he managed the primary campaign of Tom Vilsak, who would become the first democratic governor of Iowa in 30 years. He and Governor Vilsak, who later became Secretary of Agriculture under President Barak Obama, remained close friends.
Another passion of Dave’s was the need for equality for all and working for those who needed an advocate. To that end, he worked with Kalyn Free and INDN’s List to help elect 60+ tribal citizens to public office across the country.
Besides his love of politics, Dave was a seeker of meaning and wisdom of the universe that surrounds us all. His intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm translated into traveling to more than 30 countries, where he immersed himself among the peoples and their cultures. From walking village to village in the Andes to journeying far off the beaten path in China, Dave Parker was anything but a typical tourist.
In 2014, Dave returned to Helena where his skill and reputation quickly translated into becoming Communications Director for Governor Steve Bullock. Back in Montana, Dave was welcomed by old friends, and through his wit and humor, made numerous new ones as well.
Dave’s other passions included a love of sport of all kinds. A skilled amateur athlete in his own right, he was a diehard Los Angeles Dodgers fan and a steadfast supporter of his alma mater, the University of Montana Grizzlies. Most of all, Dave was fervent (some would say fanatical) in his devotion to his beloved University of Oregon Ducks.
Dave is survived by parents Harbison & Gene Parker (Seattle) and Helen & Ernie Virgil (Cottage Grove, OR); sisters Ann Burke, Stephanie Mobley, Dawn Dodd, Angela Parker, Vivian Marsh; brothers Mike, Chris & Jessie; as well as his ex-wife (but still best friend) Alice Parker, his dog Magellan and friends too numerous to mention. Dave was preceded in death by his brother Scott Virgil.
The family would like to thank the many people who were there for Dave throughout his lifetime. A celebration of Dave’s life will be held at 5 PM Saturday, June 24th, 2017 in Helena, MT on the north lawn of the state capitol building. Memorials may be sent to Big Brothers and Big Sisters or the charity of your choice.
Goodbye, Dave. Those who believe in you and your spirit know you are still doing the same grand things you always did, but from another place. Your friends and loved ones hope this next chapter in your journey brings you to the place you’ve been seeking.
Peace.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
5:00 p.m.
Saturday June 24, 2017
North Lawn of the State Capitol
1301 E. 6th Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
5:00 p.m.
Saturday June 24, 2017
North Lawn of the State Capitol
1301 E. 6th Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
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