Michele Elizabeth (Garber) Parkins was born into a loving family in Torrance, California. In 1964 the Garbers, who by then grew into a family of four, moved to the newly accessible Olympic Peninsula town of Port Ludlow, Washington.
She attended school in Chimacum School District. Although eventually transferring to and graduating from Bainbridge Island High School in 1975, she always considered herself as and is welcomed as a Chimacum High Alumni.
Michele played the flute and piccolo in band at Chimacum High. Prevailing as a flautist, she found joy in challenging others for first chair in Mr. Montgomery’s class.
Always having a competitive nature, she joined a 4-H group where she won many awards. She excelled in sewing and food preparation. Doing so well, she won an opportunity to go to state to prepare a very special meal, which was the highlight of Michele’s 4-H life, serving her dishes to former Governor Albert Rosellini.
Having a knack for numbers, Michele worked in the field of accounting, always with accuracy.
She married the love of her life, Anthony Parkins, in 1999. Their passion for cooking, the outdoors, and living sustainably always encouraged them to try new recipes in the kitchen, along with growing flowers and their own fruits and vegetables in their beautiful garden.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Frederick and Ruth (Dunlap) Garber. She is survived by her husband, Anthony Parkins; son, Joseph McCann; daughter, Janette (Parkins) Kieran; sister, Nancy (Garber) Post; nephews, Nathan and Kevin Petersen; cousin, Jennifer Sharko-Taylor; along with many great-nieces, great-nephew, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. June 12, 2022 at Yeomalt Cabin, 900 Park Ave NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110. If you wish to attend, feel free to wear something red to honor her favorite color. Casual dress.
