Suzanne M. Parker

Suzanne (Sue) Marie Parker, 85, of Cherry Valley, Illinois, passed away at home surrounded by family on November 27, 2024.  Born September 29, 1939, to Franklin and Edith (Billock) Osborne, Sue grew up in Rockford and graduated from Rockford East High School in 1957.  While at East, Sue enjoyed participating in activities with friends and serving on the Santa Lucia Queen’s Court.  After graduation Sue worked at National Lock Company where she soon met her future husband, Robert (Bob) Parker.  Sue and Bob wed at Trinity Lutheran Church on November 7, 1959, and just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.
 
Sue spent the early years of her marriage raising their three daughters, Cindi, Cristi, and Cheryl. She always made sure the home was organized and tidy and the girls looked their best. Birthdays and celebrations were thoroughly planned to the last detail whether it was a child’s birthday party or a themed party with friends…nothing was out of place or forgotten. And when it came to Christmas time, there were never enough Santas or Gnomes. It was Sue’s favorite time of the year.  
 
Once her youngest daughter entered school, Sue pursued her dream of becoming a hairdresser.  She attended Alberto’s School of Cosmetology and opened her own  business coifing the hair of neighbors and friends and eventually added working at area nursing homes ensuring women nearing the end of life were still able to look their best.  
 
Retirement for Sue was filled traveling the country and globe with her husband and various close friends.  She and Bob eventually moved to their second home in Salmon, Idaho, enjoying the mountains and making new friendships.  After many years in Salmon, they moved back to Rockford to be close to family.
 
Sue is survived by her husband, Robert; daughters, Cindi (Peter) Gustafson of Belvidere, Cristi Parker of Rockford, Cheryl Parker of Chicago; grandchildren, Christopher (Elizabeth) Parker, Jeffrey Gustafson, Emily (Jason Rowe) Gustafson, Rachael (Jordan Wedig) Parker, Samuel Gustafson; great-grandchildren, Chloe Parker, Adelaide Parker, and Acke Gustafson.  She is predeceased by her parents; brothers, Richard and David Osborne; sister, Elizabeth Swenson; fur babies, Blackie, Buddy, Duke and Duchess, and Gus.  
 
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to Mercy Health Hospice for the care offered during Sue’s final days.  With special thanks to Julie, Amy, Cathy, Ramona, Alicia, and Tami for their compassion and kindness.
 
The family requests that any memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society or Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary.
 
No services are planned.

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