James Donaldson Parker
(1868-1947)
James Donaldson Parker was born on February 11, 1868, in Fayette, Iowa, to Dr. Charles Coleman Parker and Sarah Maria Lakin. His father was 44 years old at the time of his birth, and his mother was 38.
He married Nellie R. Klemme on August 23, 1892, in Ridgeway, Iowa.
Education and Medical Career
James graduated from Upper Iowa University in 1889 and received his M.D. from the University of Michigan in 1892.
He returned to Fayette, Iowa, where he practiced medicine for the remainder of his life, serving his community as a physician during a period of significant advancement in medical science and rural healthcare.
Family Life
James Donaldson Parker and Nellie R. Klemme had three children:
- Hugh Klemme Parker (1894–1974)
- Dorothy Lakin Parker (1896–1966)
- Eleanor Bolles Parker (1904–1988)
Siblings
James Donaldson Parker was one of six children. His siblings included:
- William Lakin Parker (1855–1855)
- Daniel Mason Parker (1856–1934)
- Charles Lucius Parker (1859–1924)
- Sarah Priscilla Parker (1863–1870)
- Caroline Ritchey Parker (1865–1880)
Later Years and Legacy
James Donaldson Parker died on April 18, 1947, at the age of 79. He was laid to rest in Grandview Cemetery in Fayette, Iowa.
His life reflects a steady dedication to medicine and community, continuing the Parker family tradition of education and public service in Fayette.
