04/13/2019
Michael Wayne Parker of Ashburn
Obituary
Michael Wayne Parker, Age 72, of Ashburn, VA departed this life on March 11, 2019 at his residence.
Mike, as we all called him, married his wife Betty in Aug. 2003. He quickly became part of the “Viegas” family. Even though his wife’s family was Portuguese/Argentinian, he enjoyed our family’s gatherings and mixed holidays where we celebrated every tradition. He was extremely fond of his father-in-law’s cooking, particularly his grilled “cod fish” dishes, his mother-in-law’s empanadas and milanesas.
Mike was a gentle soul. Always ready to spear off intense conversations. He loved to share his childhood stories where he spoke of his Cherokee and African American heritage and cultures. He told stories of his summers spent with his Cherokee family, which he was extremely proud of. Mike spoke fondly of his Cherokee father, Webster Hugh Parker, a carpenter, and how he came to live in DC, spoke of his mother, LaVerne Parker who was a Nurse. He was so proud of his parents and what they taught him growing up.
Mike grew up in DC and often spoke about his childhood friends. He attended Hampton University where he played football and got his degree in Economics. Mike also played in his High School Football team. Mike was drafted to play for the Minnesota Vikings, however, for medical reason was unable to fulfill his dream. During college Mike was known as Mike “Sweed” Parker. He instilled in his son Giovannie the love of the game. He loved to watch football with the family and was a diehard Redskins fan. He was too sick to attend Sabrina’s wedding in person, but he was there in spirit as she was his little girl. He and Eddie often talked about the car business, sharing with Eddie, his lifelong passion.
Another one of Mike’s passions was eating! He loved sweets, any kind, the more the merrier. His brother-in-law Hernani convinced him to take a trip to Portugal the summer of 2011 where Mike had the best time. He loved to sit and eat at the local restaurants and experience new foods, and of course any dessert he could get his hands on at the local “Pasteleria” and enjoying a good Portuguese coffee which he learned to ask for in Portuguese “Meia de Leite”. He loved everything he ate during his trip. He would often say “vegetables, fruits and hotdogs would never be the same”.
Mike loved his grandchildren, they called him “Pappa”, loved spending time with them and protect them when they got in trouble with their parents, he was their protector.
Mike and his dogs. Mike and Betty got their first German Sheppard, named Konan, his inseparable friend, they drove 6 hours to pick him up. Later they got Czar, a yellow lab that had so much energy! He loved to walk them each day. Later, Tango came along, and they were instant buddies. Sadly, Czar and Tango died, they too were cremated. While discussing his wishes, Mike asked his wife to ask “Eric Lyles” to make sure he would place some of his ashes with his loyal friends. A wish that shall be granted.
Mike dedicated his life to the car business. Working for many area dealerships. He started his career in DC and later opened is own shop in Lexington, VA. He spent many years helping people get the car of their dreams, including Eric Lyles. He loved his job so much that he worked past his retirement years and there was no telling him to stop.
Mike, you were a man that always shared your story, never ashamed of your past, heritage or life’s choices. You were funny, gently and loved to tell your stories. You were a no-nonsense type of guy who always told it “like it is”. Mike, you will be missed by many and forgotten by none."
