Michael Maurice Parker, 74, of La Crosse, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2020 at home with his wife by his side.

He was born on March 1, 1946 to Alton Parker and Dorothy Davis. He married Ellen (Rhomberg) Nordstrom Parker on February 14, 1997 in New Orleans.

Mike loved smoking meat, spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and canoeing. He loved spending time with his grandchildren, and he was a very easy-going man with a great sense of humor. He was a wonderful friend who would give the shirt off his own back; he was a gentle, kind soul. Mike enjoyed traveling and visiting family across the country.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen (Rhomberg) Nordstrom Parker; sons, Michael Stephen Parker, Peter (Elizabeth) Michael Parker; step-sons, Wyatt (Liza) Scott Nordstrom; Richard (Lisa) Nordstrom, and Grant Nordstrom; step-daughters, Nikki (Dave) Nordstrom Weinberger and Joyce Elsroad; many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bill Brockmiller, current WWAFLCIO Executive Board member (and past president and treasurer) had this to say about Mike’s passing:

“I was so sorry to hear of Mike’s passing. My eyes got all watery. Mike wasn’t a union member (his wife was and is), pointed out here because there is no one – let me repeat no non-union citizen in Western Wisconsin that did as much as Mike did for local labor. I will miss Mike more than words express, as will Western Wisconsin Labor and, for that matter, anyone who ever met Mike will miss him dearly.”

Fran Hegenbarth current WWAFLCIO Treasurer and past board member added this:

“I am just shocked and saddened by Mike’s passing. He always made me smile with his wit and shenanigans. He will be truly missed.”

We miss you already Mike and we always will. Peace be with you.

Mike Parker (center) pictured here with Bill Brockmiller (right side of photo) and Mike’s wife Ellen on the left side of the photo (in blue) volunteering at the Annual Kids Fishing Day event. 

Mike (in red) helping the Western Wisconsin Building and Trade Council
cook food for Kids Fishing Day. It’s quite likely that Mike was spinning
one of his world famous yarns while assisting the council.