Dozens of police officers and community members mourned the death of 20-year veteran officer Sgt. Randy Parker, 44, on Oct. 26, during a procession at a local mortuary.
“It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of Randy Parker,” Newport Beach Police Department (NBPD) Chief Jon Lewis wrote on Twitter. “Randy’s sense of humor and unwavering dedication to duty will never be forgotten.”
The procession summoned a line of police officer units escorting Parker’s body from downtown Santa Ana, California, to the Pacific View Mortuary and Memorial Park in Corona Del Mar.
Parker passed away on Monday, Oct. 25, of natural causes with bilateral pulmonary thromboembolism, according to the Orange County coroner’s report.
During his service, Parker received two awards from the NBPD. He was recently awarded the “2021 Supervisor of the Year Award” for his response to the COVID-19 outbreak, George Floyd protests, and ensuring a safe visit to Lido Island for former President Donald Trump.
Parker also received, along with other members of law enforcement, the “2019 AWARD of Merit” in identifying and arresting Aquinas “Quin” Kasbar, one of the most prolific burglars to target Newport Beach.
The arrest resulted in Kasbar being charged with 31 crimes and recovering thousands of dollars worth of stolen property.
Members of the community expressed their grief on the Newport Beach Police Department’s Facebook page following Parker’s death.
“Sergeant Randy Parker was one of a kind. Such a dedicated officer, but nothing held a candle to the attention he gave to his kids and wife. We spent many hours together over the years on the baseball fields over the years. Always happy, always ready for a laugh and always looking out for everyone’s kids. Such a tragedy to lose such a great human being. Condolences to all who loved him,” wrote Cathryn Madrid.
“An inspirational person and leader,” wrote Randi M Stator.
“R.I.P. Sgt. Parker! You were a WARRIOR and a true HERO that served your community with COURAGE, INTEGRITY and HONOR! Godspeed to your families both BLOOD and BLUE! You will be deeply missed and never forgotten!!!,” wrote Mark Hinkel.
Parker was a third-generation NBPD officer and served as an officer and detective before becoming a supervisor.
He is survived by his wife and two children.
