Paul Clifford Parker, 90, of Rock Island passed away on Friday, October 13, 2023.

Cremation rites have been accorded and no services are to be held at this time. Inurnment will be in Rock Island National Cemetery, Arsenal Island. A memorial scholarship in Paul's honor will be established at a later date through Riverdale School District, Port Byron, IL. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island is assisting the family.

Paul was born on January 29, 1933 in Garden Plain, IL, a son of Clifford and Johanna (Wiersma) Parker. He grew up on a farm in Lyons, Iowa. Paul joined the United States Air Force after graduating high school and served during the Korean War. After returning home, he married Joyce Sipes and together they raised a family of three daughters.

Paul worked as a welder for various farming companies before using his G.I. Bill to earn his bachelor's degree from Carthage College. He went on to begin a successful career teaching math and coaching various sports from football to girls track at Riverdale High School. He ended his coaching career with girls track and was later honored with having a conference track meet named after him.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Neumann Parker; daughters, Pam and Becky; brother, Walt; several grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.

Paul was preceded in death of by his wife, Joyce; daughter, Deb; parents; and ten siblings.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.wheelanpressly.com.