Arlan Dean Parker, son of Harold H. and Leona M. (Stowell) Parker was born in Cotesfield, NE, on August 12, 1933, and went home to glory on October 29, 2018, in Ness County Hospital at the age of 85 years 2 months, and 17 days.

At a young age, his family moved to the Utica, Shields, Dighton, KS, area where he lived until 1953 at which time he enlisted in the United Sates Navy and served during the Korean War. He was discharged from the Navy in May, 1957.

On June 16, 1957, he married Juanita Kay Pember in Ness City, KS. They shared 61 years of marriage. To this union one son, Harlan Duane was born. A daughter Patricia Anne was adopted in September, 1969, and became an integral part of their family.

After their marriage, Arlan spent the rest of his life in Ness City, During this time, he was a farmer/rancher, custom harvester, store clerk, fuel delivery person, and a custom planter. The highlight was probably when he and Juanita started a herd of registered Salers cattle. Their cattle were recognized for their gentle disposition and ability to produce quality offspring.

After Juanita's retirement in 1998, the couple enjoyed many trips and cruises together. One of their favorite vacation spots was Branson, MO. Arlan loved the country/western shows. He especially loved driving to Baltimore to see Harlan and his family with a stop in Missouri to see Patty and her family.

Arlan was noted for his ability to listen. If one had a problem, Arlan was always ready to lend a helping hand. He was a member of First Baptist Church, Ness City, and served in many different areas of church life.

He also served as a member of the first Auxiliary Police Group in Ness City.

Survivors include his wife Juanita, son Harlan (Laura) Phoenix, MD; grandchildren Elysha McAdoo, Springfield, MO; Dylan Parker, Townson, MD; Benjamin McAdoo, Lake St. Louis, MO; and Christian Parker, Phoenix, MD; one sister, Illene Birdsong, Strafford, MO. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as a host of life-long friends and special friends: Barbie, Taylor, and Brett Scholes, Hutchinson, KS; Mike & Shell Hill, Great Bend, KS, and Caleb and Mandee Rogers and daughters, Polo, MO.

Arlan was preceded in death by his daughter Patricia; two sisters, Mildred Parker, and Pearl Walker, son-in-law Stephen McAdoo, and two brothers-in-law, Bill Walker and Eugene Birdsong.

Funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 3, at First Baptist Church in Ness City.  Visitation will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home on Friday, November 2, from 6-8 p.m.

Memorials to First Baptist Church, Ness City, are suggested.

Memories and words of support may be left for the family by writing in the guest book.

Memories and words of support may be written to the family in the guest book below.