Harry Parker Sharpe

Harry Parker Sharpe passed away peacefully at home on May 25, 2025, surrounded by family.

He is deeply missed by his beloved wife of 67 years, Mildred “Mid”; daughters April Kolar (Todd) and Allison Sharpe; grandchildren Isabel Collins (Ian) and Callaway Kemp; brother David Sharpe (Pat); and many extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Ellen Sharpe, and many dear friends and pets.

Born and raised in Barrington, Ill., Parker joined the National Guard at age 16 and proudly served for five years. He studied at Kendall College and graduated from Southern Illinois University with a degree in Economics, where he met Mid.

Parker began his career with Prudential and Central Life Insurance before founding his own firm, H. Parker Sharpe Inc., offering financial planning with a deeply personal, client-first approach.

Parker also had a keen interest in commercial real estate. His proudest project was his restoration of the Octagon House in Barrington, which earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places and inspired preservation efforts throughout the town. A devoted member of the community, Parker was active in the Barrington Methodist Church, Rotary Club (founding the Breakfast Rotary), Chamber of Commerce, and the Barrington School Board.

In 1996, Parker and Mid moved to Manitowish Waters, where they embraced their new community. He gave his time generously to the Manitowish Waters Community Presbyterian Church and Lions Club. He enjoyed retirement through fishing, gardening, cooking, market watching, helping others and his girls, and tinkering in “Parker’s Puttering Palace.”

Parker was the heart of his family—steadfast, loving, and generous. Though he will be missed deeply, his spirit lives on in the lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, June 6, at 11 a.m. (visitation at 10 a.m.) at Manitowish Waters Community Presbyterian Church, 13883 Marathon Rd, Manitowish Waters.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Manitowish Waters Community Presbyterian Church, MW Lions Club, Compassus Hospice Care, or Marshfield Clinic.

Lakeside Memorial Chapel, Inc of Wakefield, Mich. is serving the family.