Margaret J. Parker

WALNUT – Margaret J. Parker, age 92, died Thursday, January 8, 2026 at Allure of Walnut surrounded by family.

Margaret “Marge” was born on August 21, 1933 in Harmon the daughter of Otto and Margaret (Whyte) Von Holten.  She married Maynard Parker on August 5, 1951 in Rock Falls. Marge wore many hats as a homemaker, farmer's wife, insurance associate, and dental associate.  Marge was a member of First Lutheran Church of Ohio.  She was an active member of the church and ladies’ circle.

She is survived by her husband, Maynard of Walnut; one daughter, Charlene Frankenreider of Annawan; one son Douglas Parker (Lori) of Normal, one son-in-law Ed Gerdes of Walnut; six grandchildren, Chad (Kristin) Howlett, Tonya Besler, Amber (John) Dalziel, Nick (Vicki Barreras) Gerdes, Karly (Brandon McLelland) Parker, and Kaydee (Justin) Brown; seven step-grandchildren, Robin (Doug) Noble, Rebecca Woody, John (Mary) and Matt (Jennifer) Gerdes, Raquel, Shannon (Chelsea) and Austin (Amanda) Frankenreider; nine great grandchildren, Asia (Carson) Hill, Kane, Layne and Race Howlett, Peyton Gerdes, Aidan and Maggie Besler, Liam and Parker Dalziel; 14 step-great grandchildren, Matt (Christy) and Elizabeth Noble, Ian and Megan Woody, Ella & Eli Gerdes, Ethan Johnson, Peyton, Baylor, Charlie, Collins, Layne, Pence and Evin Frankenreider; step great great-granddaughter, Zoe Noble; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one daughter, Sharon Gerdes; one son-in-law, Bill Frankenreider; four sisters, Marie, Ellen “Boots”, Betty Ann, and Euryth; and seven brothers, Leo, James, John, Richard, Eugene, Robert, and Don.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 from 4:00 – 6:00 PM at the Garland Funeral Home in Walnut.  Funeral services will be Wednesday, January 14, 2026 at 11:00 AM at First Lutheran Church in Ohio.   Burial will follow at Walnut Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to the First Lutheran Church of Ohio.

Online condolences may be sent to www.garlandfuneralhomes.com.

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