Dennis Parker of Ankeny, formerly of Stockton and Freeport IL, died September 18th.  He was born February 18th, 1944, in Rockford, IL to Rex and Marion (Scace) Parker.

He grew up in Stockton, graduating from Stockton High School in 1962.  He went on to graduate from Northern Illinois University with degrees in mathematics (1967) and accounting in (1987.)

He was a teacher and coach for one year, later working as a computer programmer for three years.  He spent the rest of his professional career in the insurance industry, both in Freeport and Des Moines.

Dennis loved to travel, visiting all fifty states, most of Europe and many parts of Asia and Africa.  He was also an excellent photographer.  He enjoyed long-distance running and cycling, participating in over one hundred races and completing Iowa's RAGBRAI eleven times.

During retirement, Dennis continued to travel, spent nine years with SHIP   advising senior citizens on their Medicare options, and twelve years with AARP preparing taxes.

He is survived by his life partner, Betty Woodburn, and her extended family, Ankeny, and daughter, Rachel Wilcox, Kansas City, MO.  Also, sister, Melody Heidenreich, and nephew, Todd (Andrea) Heidenreich, Stockton,  niece, Angela (Gary Webster) Heidenreich,   Galena, IL,  and niece Leeann (Brian) Fischer,  Arlington Heights, IL.

In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by his brother, Hugh Parker, and nephew, Derick Parker.

There will be a private family burial at the Morseville Cemetery, Stockton.

The family suggests memorials to the Des Moines Area Community College nursing program at 2006 E. Ankeny Blvd., Bldg. 22, Ankeny, IA,  www.dmacc.edu/foundation or the Stockton Education Foundation at 540 North Rush Street, Stockton IL 61085.