Claude O. Parker September 25, 1949 - January 8, 2021 Bradenton, Florida - With sad hearts we say goodbye (for now) to our big-hearted, one-of-a-kind family patriarch Claude O. Parker, as God called him to his eternal home. Claude was born on September 25, 1949 in Indianapolis, the first-born of eight children. At 17 he joined the Army and fought in Vietnam, then served in the States until 1975. He lived in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and in Indianapolis before moving his family to Bradenton, FL in 2001. Claude was a proud veteran who loved his country. He cherished his family above all else. Being a father and grandfather was his delight. He loved his church and being a Knights of Columbus member. During his healthy years he was a fisherman and hunter, farmer, pulp mill operator, community advocate, and volunteer. He had a good sense of humor and found many ways to celebrate life. He is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Sherree Parker, and their sons; Nathan and Jonah Parker; by children; Jeff Parker, Jennifer Smith, Jamie Johnson, Bob Parker, Olivia Harris, and Sam Parker; siblings; Richard Parker, Pam Dance, Joe Parker, and Mary Oakley; twenty-three grandkids (another on the way!); and many friends. He is predeceased by his parents, Claude and Barbara; siblings; Betty Tanner, Leonard Parker, Gary Parker; and son, Joshua Parker. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, January 21, 2021, at 11AM at Ss. Peter & Paul the Apostles Catholic Church (2850 75th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34209). Additional memorial services were held Saturday, January 23, 2021 at the Usher Funeral Home.  In lieu of flowers please consider making a contribution to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at his church or to Tidewell Hospice of Bradenton.