Paula Parks

Paula Parks, beloved wife, mother, and friend passed away on August 13, 2023, in Gig Harbor, Washington after a courageous 3-year battle with cancer. Paula leaves behind her husband of 36 years Jerry Parks, her daughter Kaitlin Parks Nuth; son-in-law Pharey Nuth; her son Ryan Parks; her mother Viriginia Burbridge and beloved cat Rocky, as well as extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly. Paula was an incredibly kind and generous person who always put the needs of others before her own. She was a devoted wife and mother whose love for her family was unconditional. She adored spending time with them and cherished all the memories they created together. Paula’s 13 years as a paraprofessional in the Issaquah School District were some of her fondest memories. She worked in the LRC II program at Cascade Ridge Elementary. Her love for all the students she worked with was evident. She loved coming up with art projects for her students to do and loved encouraging independence throughout their journey in elementary school. Her love and passion for her students encouraged her daughter Kaitlin’s love for special education and is a current ISD LRC II teacher. Her other passion at Cascade Ridge was her beloved Safety Patrol. Paula’s love for safety patrol never went unnoticed. Between her daily morning meetings with her patrollers at the kidney table in the hallway, to nominating and winning AAA School Safety Patrol Hall of Fame for 4 different students. Patrollers were judged on their commitment to traffic safety, citizenship, leadership skills, and contributions to their school safety patrol, which they all learned from their time on patrol with Ms. Paula. She was always determined to make sure all her patrollers were doing their best job and truly learning the importance of their roll when on safety patrol. Those who knew Paula will remember her for her contagious laugh and vibrant personality that could fill any room she entered. She would make anyone that crossed her path feel welcome. The world has lost a truly amazing woman who touched many lives throughout her lifetime. Her memory will live on through the legacy she left behind in each of us who were blessed enough to know and love her. A Party for Paula (celebration of life) will be held at Canterwood Country Club in Gig Harbor, Washington on September 23rd, 2023, at 2:00 pm. All are welcome to join us as we honor Paula’s life and the impact she had on our family, friends and community. Please see this website for details: https://www.mykeeper.com/event/party-for-paula/