A memorial service for Gene Parker was held Tuesday evening at the 2018 Lucas Oil AQHA World Championship Show. Over 100 people came to support Parker’s family and friends. Trainers, breeders and exhibitors from all disciplines throughout the equine industry attended for this truly moving event.
“I think it was just a great tribute to a great man and a great friend,” Buddy Laney said after the service.
The service lasted over an hour. Multiple people spoke on behalf of Parker and the impact he had on their lives. Alex Ross, Jeffrey Pait, Buddy Laney, Luke Castle, Ross Roark, Gil Galyean and newly elected AQHA President Dr. Jim Heird were among the speakers. Parker’s son, Kyle, and grandson, Trent, also said a few words.
“We should all strive to impact the lives of others just like my father did,” Kyle Parker said of his father.
Everyone mentioned how genuine Parker was and how he truly worked to better the American Quarter Horse Association in every way possible. A slideshow was played following the speakers which highlighted pictures of Parker throughout his life with friends and family.
“I thought it was wonderful to see that many of his fellow horseman and colleagues together,” Luke Castle said of his late friend. “The support was overwhelming. It was a very classy event that honored him in the right way.”
About the Author: GoHorseShow writer, Courtney Hall is a graduate student at Missouri State University. She is obtaining a Master of Science in Agriculture degree with research in agricultural communications. She started showing the APHA & AQHA all-around circuit as a youth and continues today as an amateur.
