Parker Clark

Parker Clark, age 28, died on Sunday, December 28, 2025. His death was unexpected and heartbreaking, and it has left an immeasurable absence in the lives of those who loved him. He was deeply loved, profoundly impactful, and a light in the lives of many. While his time with us was far too short, the way he lived—and the way he loved—will continue to shape those who knew him for years to come. 

Parents carry many dreams for their children. Some are practical. Some are playful. And some are as simple—and as profound—as this: that they will be happy. Years ago, in a birthday card, Parker’s dad wrote that he hoped one day Parker would become a fisherman, a natural wish shaped by the many hours they spent together on the water. In that same card, Parker’s mom wrote her wish—that Parker would be happy. The wish of any mother.

Looking around now—at the people surrounding his wife, Brooke, and at the countless lives supporting one another in the wake of this loss, it’s clear that wish came true. Not in the way anyone expected, but in the way that mattered most. Parker was a light for others. He helped people discover their passions. He encouraged and supported them. He was a good and loyal friend. He accepted people exactly as they were, with an open heart and a generosity that felt natural and effortless. It was rare to hear him say an unkind word about anyone. His life was short, but the impact he made was lasting.

Parker was not a wallflower. He was the first to jump onto the dance floor—especially with his beautiful bride, Brooke. He believed it was his responsibility to get people dancing. He was the life of the party in the best way: joyful, inclusive, and full of energy. He didn’t mind being the center of attention, but he never needed it. His joy wasn’t something he sought; it was something he shared. 

As a child, Parker was full of life and curiosity. He loved taking things apart just to see how they worked. He was forgetful, a little messy, and fascinated by YouTube long before the rest of the family knew what it was. He desperately wanted to find his sport and tried many—karate, bowling, basketball, and baseball—before discovering his true passion: archery. 

Once Parker found archery, he jumped in with both feet. He became an expert youth archer, and joined a league where he formed deep, lifelong friendships. He taught archery to youth, enjoyed competing with his brother, Grant and friends, and also competed in the National Archery Competition twice. Archery gave Parker focus, community, and joy. He loved it so much that he started an archery club during his first year of college. 

Another passion grew more slowly: fishing. At first, Parker would have preferred sleeping in or playing Pokémon with friends. But over time, he became an excellent fisherman—and an even better first mate. Parker brought energy and ease. He entertained customers and friends, jumped in wherever needed, and when the fishing was slow, he was known for breaking into a “fish dance” that made every trip more memorable. 

In high school, Parker developed a growing interest in science and caring for the natural world. A sustainability-focused class sparked his curiosity, and when he attended Grand Valley State University, his path became clearer. Though he initially thought engineering might be his direction, sustainability and environmental science became his focus. He loved his time at Grand Valley and made many lifelong friends, including his roommate and close friend, Brian. 

It was through these friendships that Parker met the love of his life, Brooke VanElls. They met during COVID—bonding over outdoor golf, backyard bonfires, and long conversations. By October of that year, Parker knew she was “a keeper.” They were married privately on October 10, 2025. 

One of Parker’s mom’s favorite memories captures who he was at his core. Sitting together in the backyard, Parker patiently worked with his beloved dog, Ollie—teaching him tricks, explaining his training techniques, and celebrating progress with quiet pride. As they talked about life and beliefs, Parker shared that he felt like a blend of both his parents. Like his dad, he had a deep love of nature and felt at home in the world—on a boat, in the water, in the forest. Like his mom, he was open to something bigger than what could be fully explained. He didn’t claim certainty, but he felt connected. Curious. Present.

Parker rarely raised his voice. Arrogance was never part of who he was. He never truly knew how amazing he was—and perhaps that was part of what made him so impactful. He didn’t try to change people. He simply accepted and loved them. And in doing so, he left a mark everywhere he went. 

It is hard to sum up the magnificence of a life—especially one so short—when its reach was so wide. Parker’s life reminds us that meaning is not measured in years, but in love given, joy shared, and people made to feel seen. 

Parker is survived by his wife, Brooke VanElls, whom he married on October 10, 2025; his parents, David Clark and Kristin (Schoof) Clark; and his brother, Grant Clark. He is also survived by his grandparents, Harvey and Jan Schoof, and Susan Cassidy. Parker was preceded in death by his grandfather, Charles “Chuck” Cassidy, who passed away on December 9, 2025. 

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026 with visitation from 12:00–3:00 PM, followed by a 3:00 PM service at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 4646 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Kentwood with light refreshments afterward. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to donate in honor of Parker’s life please consider contributing to Brooke VanElls via Venmo @BrookeVanElls, or on behalf of Brooke to David Clark via PayPal @kclark2623.