Obituary of Jerome Parchem

Jerome "Jerry" Parchem, age 71, died in Lake Havasu City, in the early morning hours of Wednesday, July 16, 2014. Born July 16, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, he grew up in the Detroit area, and joined the US Army in1964. He served as a Radio Operator/Company Clerk at the time of his Honorable Discharge in 1970, at the Rank of Specialist (SPC E-4). He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal. A few years later he was invited to work for the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and moved to the Washington, DC area. During the next 20+ years, he traveled the country and world as part of his duties. He was instrumental in the growth and development of the Analysis Office at the National Photographic Interpretation Center (NPIC). During his career, he worked closely with NSA and the Pentagon. The bulk of his professional career will always remain shrouded in "classified" mystery- a mystique he enjoyed immensely. Jerry loved his work and was proud to serve his Country both during his time in the Army and working for "The Company". " Uncle Jerry" as he was fondly known, was a cornerstone in the lives of his close family and friends. He was as good an example of a man and friend as one could hope to know. His kind, generous and determined spirit showed great strength both physically and emotionally throughout his lifetime. In 2001, following his retirement from Federal Service, when life was to start being "easy" Jerry suffered a life shattering stroke partially paralyzing his right side. But even this catastrophic event could not keep Jerry down. He was out regularly spreading his laughter and goodwill until the day he died. Jerry was an enthusiastic supporter of the performing arts at Grace Arts Live, the gym at London Bridge Racket and Fitness Club and was a regular with the lunch crowd at Denny's Restaurant among his many other activities. Jerome is survived by nieces: Judith Baumgartner-Morris (St. Clair Shores, MI); Patti Darragh-Stange, (East Dundee, IL); and Donna Darragh-Racicot (Sterling Heights, MI); nephews: Allen Baumgartner (Detroit, MI); Bob Darragh, (Fraser, MI); David Darragh, (Brighton, MI); Kevin Darragh, (Warren, MI); and his Lake Havasu adopted family: Mark and Tanya Powell, and Kassidy and Harrison all to whom he will always be Uncle Jerry! Jerome was preceded in death by his two sisters and their husbands: Carol Baumgartner, Lake Havasu City and Eileen Darragh, Lake Havasu City. Private services were held for the family at Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home. Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made at Lietz-Fraze Funeral Home to benefit the Grace Arts Live Youth Scholarship Program. Thoughts and condolences may be sent to Jerry's family at www.lietz-frazefuneralhome.com .