Jack Parnell, 87
Jack Callihan Parnell was born May 7, 1935, in Leavenworth, Wash. He passed away April 30, 2023, at home on the ParnellRanch in Sandpoint, Idaho.
Jack grew up on his father’s dairy. His life and work ethic began there.
Jack went on to work for Crystal Creamery. He owned and operated Regal Janitorial Service. He later became a field editor for "Pacific Stockman," "Stockman Weekly," and created and published "California Cattleman" magazine. He was a renowned livestock auctioneer, Director of the California Department of Fish and Game, Secretary for the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture, a government relations advisor and Founder/Chairman of Auburn Bank of Commerce.
In addition to all the positions Jack held during his career, he found time to serve many different community and agriculture causes. He served as a board member for Farmers Insurance, Chairman of the Board for Neogen Corporation, Chairman of the Board for Siller Brothers Incorporated, American Angus Association, California Production Credit Association, President of California Angus Association, President of 20th District Agriculture Association/Gold Country Fair, member of Pacific Fisheries Management Council and member of the California Air Resource Board.
Jack was voted California Livestock Man of the Year by the Grand National Rodeo and Stock Show. Jack owned and operated Dunipace Angus Ranch/ParnellRanch Clydesdales. He was inducted into the Clydesdale Breeders of the U.S.A. Hall of Fame and was founder of the Draft Horse Classic in Grass Valley, Calif. In addition to his love of ranching, he also owned and operated family businesses that complemented the ranch: Headquarter House Restaurant, Headquarter House Country Meat Shop and Angus Hills Golf Course.
Jack authored three books espousing his philosophy and beliefs. "My Name is Ramsey," "The Old Apple Tree and Friends," "The Old Apple Tree Talks 'Happiness.'"
Whether in a boardroom or in Washington, D.C., he couldn’t wait to get back to his ranch. Mowing hay, checking cows, harrowing a pasture or watching the Clydesdale foals develop, he was happiest on the land.
From a humble beginning to becoming a successful businessman, his greatest accomplishments were being a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, with many extended family members and friends. He touched all our lives in different ways and will be missed.
His faith and love for his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ served him well. He’s home.
“My Thoughts”
By Jack
During your journey, there will be events that you don’t understand, but they are all very important and necessary. They mold us into the person that we will become. Whether you think it good or bad, have faith! Our Great Creator is using these events to very carefully weave the delicate fabric of your life and character.
A celebration of life for Jack will be held at the ParnellRanch, Sandpoint, Idaho, on Friday, Sept. 29, 2023, at 2 p.m.
God bless you, Papa. He sure blessed us with you. We love you.
Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling arrangements. Please visit Jack’s online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guestbook.