William M. Parnell

William M. Parnell, born in Gary, Indiana, resident of Lake Station, Indiana, passed away at the age of 69 on February 26, 2024. As the saying goes “the man, the myth, the legend”. Some, a few, may think that of him, but to us he was just a regular guy. Happiest in his sweatpants, and stained up shirts. He could be dramatic, but didn’t need to draw attention to himself. His happy places were on the beach, snorkeling in Lake Michigan, it was a sight to see a 6 ft man snorkeled up walking out to the water to look for treasures along the shore but he thought it was normal. Or coaching his sons Little League and Pop Warner games. Halloween (his favorite time) would find him setting up his “scary scene” in the driveway of his sister in laws house. Faith, Family, Friends were what really matter most. Becoming a father was very special, becoming a grandfather was even more special. To say “no” was not part of his vocabulary. You might be spoiled with “dark chocolate” candy, ice-cream for the kids in the neighborhood, Albanese for the ladies he assisted rides for, or cook a special meal for company. Teaching Faith Formation to 8th graders was a challenge he truly embraced. Joining the Knights of Columbus later in life, helped complete his Spiritual journey. He leaves us, sailing into the sunset. William is survived by, wife; Laura Parnell, son; William M. Parnell ll (Brynnda) daughter; Nicole Manning (Nic Manning), Deborah Parnell Barnes (the mother of William and Nicole), grandchildren; Jillian Albritton, “the beep beeps”; Macallister, Vaughn, and Finnley Manning , great grandchildren; Zane and Lilith Shelton, “Tuesday Night Kids”; Sandi, Samantha, Angela, Brian, Anthony, Amelie, Brooke, Blake, Andrew, Aubree, Izzy, Lila, brothers; Ivey Parnell (Georgia), Ed Senf (Amy), sister; Patricia Reeder, mother in law; Martha Angotti, sisters in law; Lisa Peete (Mike), Paula Angotti, Maria Knight, Andrea Angotti, lots of cousins, who were all his “Favorites” including “Princess”. Services will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 356 W. 700 N. Valparaiso IN 46385 Rosary Conducted by Knights of Columbus Council 12149 at 2:30 pm until Mass at 3:00 pm officiated by Father Paul Quanz. 4:00 p.m. Pizza Party to celebrate his life at the Church Hall. Arrangements entrusted to Burns Funeral Home Hobart, Indiana. www.BurnsFuneral.com

William M. Parnell

September 28, 1954 - February 26, 2024