Our much loved husband, father, and friend, Michael Parkis, left us on June 5, after several years of struggling with dementia. Born in Detroit, Mi., Mike graduated from the University of Michigan in Educational Psychology and spent his working career helping young people who had disabilities find positive ways to more useful and satisfying lives. After retiring he moved to Washington to be near his daughter who attended UW and to be able to play his beloved soccer twelve months a year.

Though he was a city boy at heart, he came to Vashon with his wife, Frances O’Reilly, so that she could have her horses at home once again. He transformed himself into the farm’s fix-it person, taking great delight in making things work again. He also loved walking down to the shore from their house on Maury Island, taking annual trips to Hawaii, and sharing Irish music on Wednesday night at Snapdragon Café.

Even when his dementia gradually stole his ability to play soccer or bridge, he remained always gentle and cheerful, providing everyone he encountered with a cheery remark or a gentle observation.

After his struggles ended, his friends gathered with his wife, his two daughters, Patty Parkis of Denver, Co. and Marjorie Parkis of Portland, Or., and his sister Patricia of New York City, to share memories and stories and to walk down to the beach he loved to spread his ashes. Those who wish to donate in his memory may do so to Vashon Pet Protectors or to Vashon Youth Soccer.