Beloved 70s legend dies aged 81 in hospice with heartbroken wife at his bedside (Image: Getty)
Walter Parazaider died of complications from Alzheimer’s disease died on Wednesday, June 17, while in hospice care at the age of 81. His death was announced by his daughter Felicia Helen Parazaider on Facebook. “I love you poppy, my Pal,” she wrote. “You coloured our world.” The tragic news was later confirmed by his wife, JacLynn, who was at his bedside.
She told TMZ that her husband had died at 2.10am on Wednesday morning while in hospice care. Walter was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease six years ago. In a heartbreaking statement, JacLynn added, “He had put up a good fight with Alzheimer’s and unfortunately it ended tonight. We are going to miss him for sure … We were married for 59 years and we had 59 wonderful years.”
Walter was best remembered for founding Chicago in 1967 and was one third of the band’s brass and woodwind section alongside Lee Loughnane and James Pankow. Chicago was a major hit-maker for decades, recording nearly 40 albums and selling, according to some sources, more than 100 million records.
Walter Parazaider dead: The musician (second left) died while in hospice care (Image: Getty)
The band enjoyed several radio hits, particularly in the 1970s, including “25 or 6 to 4,” “Saturday in the Park,” “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day”, “Wishing You Were Here”, “Old Days,” “If You Leave Me Now” and “You’re the Inspiration.”
Born March 14, 1945 in Maywood, Illnois, Walter studied classical clarinet before forming a rock band.
While the band Chicago had numerous lineup changes, the saxophonist remained a member of the group up until his retirement, due to health issues, in 2018.
In a message shared on their website in 2021, Walter wrote, “Five months ago, I was diagnosed with Alzheimers disease. Needless to say, my wife, daughters and myself were shocked and devastated. It has taken awhile to process this news and the fact is, we still are.
Walter Parazaider dead: The Chicago star is survived by his wife and two daughters (Image: Getty)
The good news is we have a wonderful medical facility here and I have a very good doctor. I am working hard and not going to give up.
With new treatments and therapy, along with my family’s love and support, I feel very positive about the future. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. I wish you and your families all the best in 2021 and always.”
Walter is survived by his wife JacLynn, and his daughters Laura and Felicia.
