Parr William Schoolman, 86, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2026.
Born on December 28, 1939, in rural Clifton, Illinois, Parr spent the majority of his life in Iroquois County, where he built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and service to others.
Parr proudly served in the United States Army, but was always quick to remind people that he did not see combat and preferred not to receive special attention for his service.
He retired as a Quality Control Supervisor at Heinz Pet Food Production Plant after serval decades of employment.
Parr was his family’s biggest fan. Whether cheering from the sidelines, the stands, or the audience, he rarely missed an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren in their sports, performances, and activities. His signature words of encouragement—“Give ‘em hell, kid!”—became a treasured family tradition and a phrase that will forever bring smiles to those who knew and loved him.
Known for his generous heart, Parr was always willing to lend a helping hand. He quietly served his community for many years by operating the local food pantry, and even in his later years, he faithfully drove friends and relatives to appointments. He was happiest when he could make someone else’s day a little easier.
Parr also found great joy in fishing, especially during his annual trips to Chetek, Wisconsin. For more than 80 years, those vacations became a cherished tradition filled with family, laughter, and countless memories on the water.
Above all, Parr will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, loyal friend, and a man who could bring laughter even during life’s most difficult moments. He had a gift for spreading joy and, when asked how he was doing, would reply, “I’m feeling up to Parr.” He leaves a legacy that will continue through the many lives he touched.
Parr married Patricia Ann Meents on May 25, 1968 in Ashkum and she preceded him in death on February 5, 2025.
Parr is survived by his loving children, Parr Thomas Schoolman (Robin), Paige Schoolman (Michelle), Patrice Schoolman and Abby Schoolman Lubich (Jason); seven grandchildren, Makenna (Tommy) DeVries, Myah, Parr Thomas Jr., Ryne and Alec Schoolman, Kinsley and Brynn Lubich; one great-grandson, Jett DeVries and another one on the way; one brother, Delmar Schoolman; two brothers-in-law, Tim (Pat) Meents and Tom Meents; one sister-in-law, Karleen Yohnka; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister-in-law, Mary Ann Westgor.
Visitation will be from 4:00-8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2026 at the Knapp Funeral Home in Clifton and also 1 hour prior to the funeral service on Saturday at the Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton.
Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at the Zion Lutheran Church in Clifton with Rev. Joel Brown officiating. Burial will be in the Ashkum Cemetery.
The family asks that those wishing to honor Parr’s memory do so by supporting Prairieview Lutheran Homes, Uplifted Care, Zion Lutheran Church of Clifton, or the Clifton Food Pantry, or by cheering on a young athlete, casting a fishing line, or simply offering a helping hand to someone in need—just as Parr so often did.
