In Memoriam: Julius Parker Jr. and Dennis Armstrong
Parker honored for his service to his country and the University
Julius Parker Jr., former associate vice president of business affairs, died April 3 at 89.
Julius Parker Jr., former associate vice president for business affairs
During his time at the University, Parker oversaw areas including procurement operation, risk management and safety, records management, postal operations, University police and security, and more. He retired in 2010.
Lehman Benson, vice president of Black advancement and engagement, called Parker an "incredible man" who served as a mentor to him.
"His guidance and support played a significant role in my current position as a vice president at the University of Arizona," Benson said. "I express my deepest condolences to his family. He was an excellent leader and a source of inspiration for many at the University and he will be deeply missed."
Parker had a distinguished military career, including serving as the first chief of the U.S. Army's Military Intelligence Corps and overseeing the creation of the Military Intelligence Hall of Fame. His military awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Bronze Star and Purple Heart.
You can read more about Parker's life and legacy on the U.S. Army Intelligence Knowledge Network website.
Armstrong remembered for his expertise, mentorship and friendship
Dennis Vern Armstrong, extension specialist emeritus, died in February. He was 88.
Armstrong was the extension dairy specialist in the Department of Animal Sciences from 1973 until his retirement in 1999.
"Dennis Armstrong epitomized what an extension specialist should be: in constant search of solutions for the problems affecting the dairy producers in the state," said Duarte Diaz, associate professor in the School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences. "The design and operation of all the dairy farms in Arizona have his fingerprint on them."
Dennis Vern Armstrong, extension specialist emeritus
Armstrong was known internationally as a leading expert in dairy operation and management, specifically for his research on reducing the impact of high temperatures through facility designs. After retiring from the University, he continued his international consulting work until 2019.
Beyond his work as an extension specialist, Armstrong contributed to the University through the Dennis Armstrong Student Support Scholarship in Dairy Management.
"I could not have asked for a better role model for my work," Diaz said. "Dennis was a great friend, and he'll be greatly missed."
Armstrong is survived by his children Susan, Wallace, Elizabeth and Jill, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Services were held in February.
A version of this story was originally posted on the College of Agriculture, Life and Environmental Sciences website.