Richard Lee Parker

Richard Lee Parker

Jul 16, 1941 — Oct 18, 2026

Goodland, KS

Richard Lee Parker, known to his family and friends as Lee, passed away on October 18, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on July 16, 1941, in Goodland, Kansas, Lee later moved to Canon City, Colorado, where he graduated from high school. On September 2, 1962, he married the love of his life, Illa VanDonge.

He grew up ranching and dealt in racehorses, an endeavor that gave him the opportunity to travel across the country. His life was shaped by hard work, a love of the Western way of life, and a spirit that could never be tamed. Lee was a true ranch hand through and through. Together, Lee and Illa shared a life and memories that would remain close to his heart.

Lee spent the last 38 years working at T-Bar Ranch, where he built a life around the work he loved. A cowboy at heart, he knew his way around horses, ranch work, leatherworking, and the everyday challenges of country living. He retired in 2025, leaving behind decades of hard work, dedication, and memories made along the way.

Lee enjoyed the simple things that made life worth living: riding horses, fishing, dancing, playing poker, working with leather, cooking up a decent cowboy meal, and spending time in good company. Whether he was on horseback, working around the ranch, or sharing a meal and a laugh with friends, Lee was most at home living life his own way.

Lee wanted to use his dad’s epitaph, a fitting tribute to a life lived with grit, determination, and a touch of humor: “A wild horse rider, a fire fighter and a fair-to-middlin’ pumping windmill man.” Those words tell the story of a man who worked hard, took life as it came, and left his own mark on the world. Lee was one of a kind, and his Western spirit will be remembered by those who knew and loved him.

Lee was preceded in death by his parents, Verne L. Parker and Nellie H. Hamlin; his stepfather, Dominick Pasquale; and his beloved wife, Illa Jean Parker.

He is survived by his brother, Rusty (Ann) Parker of Lincoln County, Idaho; his brothers-in-law, Jerry (Cindy) VanDonge of Texhoma, Oklahoma, and Jhan (Deda) VanDonge of Burkburnett, Texas; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish his memory.

A man of Catholic faith, Lee leaves behind a legacy of hard work, independence, and a life lived with the heart of a cowboy. Though he has ridden his last ride here on earth, the memories he created, the stories he shared, and the example he set will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

In keeping with his wishes, Lee’s ashes will be spread at a later date with those of his beloved Illa, bringing them together again.

Ride easy, Lee. The trails may lead on, but you will never be forgotten.

Memorials may be left to one of your favorite charities in honor of Lee. Information and condolences www.batemanfuneral.com