Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire is mourning the loss of Don Parker, a significant figure in its athletics program. Parker, who passed away on November 13 at the age of 79, was a longtime wrestling coach and friend to many within the community.

Parker led the UW-Eau Claire wrestling team for 32 years, from 1977 to 2009. His tenure saw the development of numerous athletes and left a lasting impact on the university. Under his guidance, his teams produced one national champion, 12 All-Americans, and 15 conference champions. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the WIAC Wrestling Coach of the Year during the 1999-00 season.

In addition to his role as head wrestling coach, Parker also served as an assistant football coach for 12 seasons and taught in the Department of Kinesiology. Originally from Hawkeye, Iowa, Parker excelled in sports during high school and college. He was a state wrestling champion and won two NCAA Division II titles at State College of Iowa (now University of Northern Iowa). He also competed in the NCAA Division I tournament.

Before joining UW-Eau Claire, Parker coached at Upper Iowa University and several high schools across Illinois and Oregon. His leadership extended beyond coaching; he served as president of the NAIA national wrestling coaches association in 1986-87 and received various honors throughout his career. These include inductions into multiple halls of fame such as Northern Iowa Hall of Fame (1986), NCAA Division II Hall of Fame (2000), Iowa Glen Brand Hall of Fame (2007), and National Wrestling Hall of Fame-Wisconsin Chapter (2010).

The annual Don Parker Open tournament is named after him, reflecting his enduring legacy at UW-Eau Claire. A moment of silence will be observed before tonight's home opener against UW-Oshkosh to honor his memory.