Resident of Santa Cruz

Parker was a creative artist, and private, sensitive man.

Born John Parker Seward, he chose to go by his family’s Coat of Arms title, Parker.

Parker grew up on the West Side of Menlo Park and graduated from Ravenswood High School. As a child, he fondly recalled family summer vacations at Fallen Leaf Lake. He studied Landscape Design at Foothill College where he excelled. Parker had a love for acoustic music and fine audio equipment. His record collections were vast and the vinyl was always pristine. Parker kept all his tools sharp and was a steady hand in every endeavor he took on. He was not a jack of all trades, but rather a master of many.

Parker was a Journeyman Plumber, Landscape Contractor and Carpenter, working mostly on large commercial projects. Most of his career he spent in the Silicon Valley and Santa Cruz. He helped build school playgrounds, projects for Camp Loma and lovingly revitalizing the Henri Farm in Corralitos. His great talents were recognized when he earned the First Place Landscape Award at the Carmel Garden Show. Life on the Henri Farm provided a lifestyle that was truly Parker in every aspect of his authentic self. His infectious laugh still echoes in the Tindall Ranch mountains.

He had his own style, often sporting one of his many Pendleton shirts accented by turquoise jewelry of custom design. Parker had a true love for items of quality and historic significance, it showed in everything he did from work to play. He kept his most valued treasures in a 1920s Gerstner tool chest.

Parker was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Marianne Seward, and sister Pamela Seward. He leaves a brother, Richard Seward III of Germany and Shelley Seward of Menlo Park.

Parker was generous with his feelings and his big-heartedness showed through for many people in our community needing help, he was there to lend a hand when it was needed. Contributions in his honor are welcomed for Habitat for Humanity, Housing Matters and Grey Bears Thrift Store.

For my Parker, surely there can be no more tears left in me, for Ihave wept them all over him.

A private gathering is planned by Elizabeth.