Stephen Parker, Long-time Cupertino Union School District Principal

We are saddened to share that Stephen Parker, 80, passed away on May 23, 2025, with his children by his side.

Born in Spokane, Washington, to Stephen and Margaret (Rosie) Parker, Steve was raised in Butte, Montana. A graduate of Butte Central High School, he was known for being a bit of a troublemaker—an early spark that later fueled his deep empathy and understanding as an educator.

Steve's college journey took him through the University of Oregon and San Jose State University before graduating from Montana State University, collecting lifelong friends along the way. He worked many jobs in his youth—paperboy, cemetery worker, hospital janitor, and mine chemist—but his favorite was driving a bus in Yellowstone National Park during summer breaks in college.

After graduating, Steve returned to California and worked in sales before discovering his true passion: teaching. He taught middle school science in the Cambrian and Cupertino school districts, ran a program for students facing academic challenges, and eventually became an administrator. He served as principal at Cupertino, Miller, and Hyde Middle Schools.

Always ready for adventure, he helped launch the first Cupertino Middle School trip to Yosemite and led the inaugural sister city student delegation to Japan. In 1990 he was honored as a California Educator of the Year in recognition of his vision for education reform and support programs for students coming from other countries. Steve thought middle school students were amazing. He admired their energy and was deeply committed to working with other educators to help them flourish.

Family was at the heart of Steve's life. He married Rosemary, an independent and compassionate RN he met while working as a hospital janitor in college. Together, they built a joyful, loving home for their two children. Steve was a fully engaged father—attending countless games, helping with homework, driving carpools, doing his daughter's hair when Rosemary worked nights, and making sure his kids always had jobs on school breaks.

Steve fostered a love of travel in his family, beginning with a memorable three-week European trip inspired by Rick Steves. In retirement, he continued to explore the world and spent an incredible summer living in New York City.

A generous and loyal friend, Steve frequently opened his home to those in transition—new jobs, new cities, or simply needing a place to start over. He brought people together. Christmas involved multiple groups of friends joining for brunch and dinner, and he threw great St. Patrick's Day parties for teachers and staff members. His children's friends were always welcome in his home.

His grandsons, Zack and Keegan, were the light of his later years. Steve loved spending time with them, especially babysitting Zack every Wednesday and taking him out for unhealthy lunches. Visits to LA involved hanging by the pool with Keegan and playing with Jay's old toys. Steve even showed up for a surprise visit during the COVID lockdown.

Steve was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rosemary. He is survived by his children, Shannon (Jeff) and Jay (Shannon); his grandsons, Keegan and Zack; and his brothers, Walter and Kiely.

Steve will be remembered for his big heart, adventurous spirit, and unwavering belief in the power of education and family. He made a lasting difference in countless lives, and his warmth and generosity will be missed dearly.