Brian T.  Parkinson, 69, of Milan, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2025.

Brian was a proud graduate of Alleman High School (class of '73) in Rock Island and went on to earn his MBA in finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Though he had many interests and accomplishments, he chose a quiet and meaningful life on his farm in rural Milan, where he spent most of his years surrounded by nature and family.

Brian lived fully and adventurously. When he wasn't tending to his farm or enjoying time with loved ones, he could be found climbing mountains, sailing on Lake Michigan, kayaking stretches of the Mississippi River, or cycling across the United States and Europe. His sense of wonder and determination was matched only by his curiosity and thirst for knowledge.

In his later years, Brian continued to live on the family farm with his daughter Margaret, son-in-law Jeff Jacobs, granddaughters Jane and Evelyn Youngblood, dogs Abraham and Lincoln, and cat George. He was a constant, joyful presence in their busy and loving household. One of his greatest joys was volunteering at the Quad City Animal Welfare Center, where he walked dogs nearly every day, forming bonds with countless animals in need.

Brian is survived by his children, Thomas (Julia Beutler), Margaret (Jeff), and Auden Parkinson; his grandchildren, Jane and Evelyn; his siblings, Constance, Tony (Nancy), and Mark (Tammy) Parkinson; and his sister-in-law Betty Parkinson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Rita (Peine) Parkinson, sister Mary Jane Parkinson, and his brother Robert Parkinson Jr.

A visitation will be held at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home in Milan on Tuesday, May 20th from 5-7 in the evening. A funeral mass will held at St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Milan on Wednesday, May 21st at 10 in the morning.

In keeping with his compassionate spirit, Brian's final wish was to see Della, his favorite shelter dog, find a loving home. Della is a 4 year old husky-pit bull mix currently residing at the Quad City Animal Welfare Center. She needs a dog-savvy match who can offer her the gentle guidance and affection she deserves. With a penchant for outdoor adventures and a profound love for belly rubs, Della is the epitome of joy waiting to brighten your days. While she dreams of exploring the world by your side, Della thrives in an adult-only home where she can be the center of your universe (no other cats or dogs to steal away attention).

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Seton Catholic School in Moline (https://forms.diamondmindinc.com/setonschool/donatenow?token=1018866463) or Quad City Animal Welfare Center in Milan. (https://qcawc.org/donate)

Brian's legacy of adventure, kindness, and deep love for family and animals will be cherished by all who knew him.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.wheelanpressly.com.