Daniel Lee Parker

 Daniel Lee Parker, 60, of Peru, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 21, 2026, surrounded by the people he loved most. 

Dan was born June 19, 1966, in Terre Haute, Indiana, to Daniel J. and Rita (Wilson) Parker. He graduated from Terre Haute South Vigo High School in 1984 and graduated the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in 1988.

 On May 4, 1985, Dan married the love of his life, Lisa A. Hodges. Together, they shared more than 41 years of marriage, building a beautiful life, raising their three daughters , and creating countless memories along the way. Lisa was not only his wife, but his best friend and the person who stood beside him through every chapter of their lives together. 

Dan proudly served as a Terre Haute police officer and later continued his passion for law enforcement and K-9 training as an instructor and Director of Operations at Vohne Liche Kennels in Peru. Throughout his career, he had the privilege of teaching, mentoring, and making a difference in the lives of K-9 handlers throughout the United States and abroad. He took great pride in his work, but the title he cherished most was simply Husband, Dad and Grandpa.

Family was the center of Dan’s world. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend. He never needed a special occasion to show his family how much they meant to him. He was there for the ball games, the celebrations, the everyday moments, and all the little things that become the memories we hold onto forever. 

His grandchildren were a tremendous source of pride and happiness. He loved watching them grow, cheering them on from the sidelines, and being a part of their lives. He leaves behind ten grandchildren who brought immense joy to his heart: Izzik Morris, Jayvier Hunt, Lennon Carter, Romeo Rader, Paisley Carter, Olivia Johnson, Boston Carter, Barrett Carter, Makenna Johnson, and Taylor Johnson. Each of them held a special place in their Grandpa’s heart, and each will carry a piece of him with them for the rest of their lives.

Dan also enjoyed hunting, riding his motorcycle, dog training, and spending time with family and friends. He had a wonderful sense of humor, a kind heart, and a way of making people feel like they belonged. He made memories wherever he went and left an impression on far more lives than he probably ever realized.

 Dan will be deeply missed by his wife, Lisa Parker of Peru; his daughters, Danielle Parker, Tiffany Carter (David), and Christina Johnson (Jeff), all of Peru; his ten grandchildren; his parents, Daniel and Rita Parker of Terre Haute; and his sister, Sheri Foy (David) of Terre Haute.

 Dan’s life was defined not only by the career he was so proud of, but by the people he loved and the lives he touched. His greatest legacy is the family he built, the lessons he taught, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely. 

There will never be another Dad, Grandpa, husband, or friend quite like Dan. His family will miss his voice, his laughter, his stories, his hugs, and simply having him there. While their hearts are broken by his absence, they are forever grateful for the years, memories, and love they were blessed to share with him.

 Dan will live on in the hearts of his family and in every story they tell, every tradition they continue, and every memory that brings a smile through the tears. 

 Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Riverview Funeral Home, 421 W. Canal Street, Peru, Indiana. Funeral services will begin at 3:00 p.m.

 Additional visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until the time of service on Monday, September 28, 2026, at Prairie Creek Church of Christ, 15909 S. 53rd Place, Farmersburg, Indiana 47850. Funeral services will begin at 3:00 p.m., followed by burial at Westlawn Cemetery, 5501 West Middletown Road, Prairie Creek, Indiana 47850. 

Memorial contributions or in lieu flowers may be made to Lisa Parker- Dan Parker K9 memorial.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Riverview Funeral Home where online condolences can be shared with the family at www.riverviewfhperu.com