Michael Harry Samuel Parks

1940 - 2017

Michael Harry Samuel Parks obituary, 1940-2017, Tarzana, CA

BORN

1940

DIED

2017

FUNERAL HOME

Michael Parks Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on May 15, 2017.

April 24, 1940 - May 9, 2017 Michael Parks best known for his early roles in "Then Came Bronson" and "Bus Riley's Back In Town." More recently, Michael was recognized for his outstanding work in "Kill Bill," "Red State" and "Tusk." Michael is survived by his wife Oriana Parks and son James Parks. Memorial Services will be held on: Saturday, May 20th, at 1 PM Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park 1218 Glendon Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90024



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Memories and Condolences
for Michael Parks

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January 16, 2024

Ron stanley

My heart goes out to the family of Michael parks when I was born. Michael parks was my hero right next to Lloyd. Bridges from sea hut then came Bronson and seahawks were my favorite shows of to this day. And they're my most favorite memories. Unfortunately, they both passed on. And I truly want to know how sorry I am for your loss. My name Is front Stanley? I grew up in Santa Ana California. I had a replica of his bike when I was in my teens in proud. Ride it every day. It was a 160 Honda. And I think I was 14 love your family. I love Michael parks. God bless you all.

April 9, 2021

Acquaintance

R. Hernandez

Mr. Parks was equally captivating in person, as he was on the screen. He would walk into the drugstore I would work at and immediately recognized him by his voice when he asked for his Yellow American Spirits. I was always too embarrassed to tell him I was a fan of his work on Quentin Tarantino's films and chose to respect his privacy insted. May he rest in peace and may he be in God's almighty glory.

January 22, 2021

Friend

J. Gilbert

Enjoyed our times together in Santa Barbara when Jim was very young. Always admired Michael’s tenacity, great talent, and sense of fun. Stubborn but usually right! People who knew him were lucky!

December 1, 2020

Soryn Covaci

Rest in peace, wonderful man! Your biggest fan, Soryn Covaci! You'll always remain in my soul!

May 10, 2020

James Bronson

Its been three years since you have passed but you are still in our hearts thoughts and prayers and your family as well. May the good lord bless you all.

November 29, 2018

Friend

YR Senior

You were always my favorite actor when I was in high school. Thank you for giving such great performances. I have followed your movie career until you reached 'angelhood'...I hope to meet you in heaven. ~YRS~

January 7, 2018

Michael Childress

May God ease your pain.

December 22, 2017

I was so sorry to hear of his death
I loved Then came Bronson, when I was a young girl. i had such a crush on him, That I sent him a letter and he sent me back autographed photo. I cherished it for years. He was such a gentle soul. Loved his Album.

July 23, 2017

actor...singer...i was a long time fan..since the " then came bronson: series

June 1, 2017

Robert C

May 28, 2017

Nadine Maxwell

R.I.P.

May 27, 2017

steve daly

R.I.P. a long time fan,

May 27, 2017

Lynne Brennan

May 27, 2017

Lynne

May 25, 2017

God bless ...

May 20, 2017

Donna Copman

Dear family of Michael,
And so you lay your wonderful husband, father, friend to rest. I discovered this uniquely talented man in 1965 and I've been following him ever since. The news of his death pained me greatly. I hope he didn't suffer and I also hope he's up in heaven on his Harley sportster....hanging in there. ❤❤❤

May 20, 2017

JB Good

Thank you for many years of enjoying you as you honed your craft. I personally feel you were never promoted or appreciated as an outstandingly adaptable and versitile actor able to crossover character barriers with ease. You rank right up there with the George Cooney's, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon and Ben Afflecks that are so recognized for the same acting attributes you have exuded for years. RIP dear sir, your loss to the acting community is a great blow. May your family find peace and comfort in knowing how much you were loved by complete strangers. God Bless.

May 18, 2017

Cathy Johnson

Such a great loss for his dear family who loved him, and for those of us who loved him from afar. Seeing him in The Wild Seed when I was a young teen was IT for me. I was a forever fan from then on. RIP Michael and Thank you.

May 17, 2017

sharon eickhoff

I remember him in Then Came Bronson both film and tv series.RIP

May 17, 2017

Joanne Elliott

Had a major crush on him when he starred in Then Came Bronson in the 70s. RIP Michael

May 16, 2017

Lynne Dozier

To The Parks family - what a wonderful man who played many characters. I loved Michael Parks in "Then Came Bronson"; and I loved him whether he played a soft-spoken character, the quirky guy or the bad guy. Michael Parks, the great actor, always came through. May you find comfort in your love and your memories.

May 15, 2017

Michael Parks came to my high school Garden Grove High School, in Garden Grove, Orange County, CA in the 1970's and talked about not using drugs and I could tell he was good at relating to young people. He seemed very nice and down-to-earth. He really kept my interest during his speech. I stayed away from drugs probably thanks to him. I liked him in Then Came Bronson. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. We will have many tv shows and movies to watch to remember him. God Bless! Linda Ann G

May 15, 2017

Jack Maine

For me Michael Parks was The Most Natural"actor"I ever saw. I met him once when I was15 and talked to him 30 years later on the phone. A very humble man with a great soothing singing voice too. I will miss him immensely, Was always hoping he would get an Oscar someday. Although Ji don't think he cared about awards too much anyway.

May 15, 2017

Laina B

I remember him from decades back, my parents watched and were in awe of him.
So many things he has been in, unrecognizable to me...the quality few actors have.

May 15, 2017

Ben Ziogas

I enjoyed Michael in his roles since Then came Bronson. He will be missed by many. I pray the family will have strength to carry on. Thank You Michael for all you have done.

May 15, 2017

Friend

PATSY BOLLEN

I LOVED HIM IN "THEN CAME BRONSON". I HAVE 3 OF HIS ALBUMS AND HE WAS A GREAT SINGER TO. I LOVE YOU MICHAEL PARKS AND I'M GONNA MISS YOU. YOU WERE THE BEST. PRAYERS FOR HIS FRIENDS & FAMILY.

May 14, 2017

George Stone

I never missed Then Came Bronson. Thank you for your work throughout the years Mr. Parks and may you rest in peace, or continue to act in the hereafter if that's better.

May 14, 2017

Randy S

R.I.P. Michael Parks

May 14, 2017

Grady Youngblood

Posted by Grady Youngblood

May 14, 2017

To the Parks family: Your loss is also felt by all his friends and fans. Michael was an excellent actor and an outstanding talent. May you be surrounded by love at this very sad time. An Admirer

May 13, 2017

R T

So sad to here of Michael's passing. I have loved him from afar since watching "Wild Seed" on the early movie back in the day. RIP

May 13, 2017

Alaya

Family of Michael Parks
My sincerest condolences. May you trust in God for strength to cope with your difficult loss. Psalms 16:8

May 13, 2017

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

May 13, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

May 13, 2017

Betty

May the God of all comfort be with the Parks family.

May 12, 2017

Sandy Wrinkle

I had a big crush on Michael after seeing him in the movie In Search Of the Castaways when I was 13. I still have his lp. You will be missed Michael.

May 12, 2017

Jim Martin

There's fancy. Then there's extravagant. Then luxurious, gorgeous, and that which seeks to draw attention to itself. Then came Bronson. Proof positive of how the greatest and most valuable things in this life are actually the simplest and most genuine. No glitz and glamour, No need for publicity and recognition, just true greatness wrapped in a brown paper bag of real life experience. I know every person who strives to simply be themselves with no pretenses really looked forward to being able to tune in every Thursday night and hang out with one of their own. With sincerest condolences to the Parks Family and all who mourn the loss of this common man's hero, a wonderful reminder that physical death and departure from this life can be a wonderful and welcomed thing, if we know the real reason for living...........Matthew 11:28-30 / Romans 10:9-13

May 12, 2017

Friend

Stan Satter

Michael was truly and inspiration to me and my generation. He gave us a view of life and adventure on a motorcycle that is still with me today.

Posted by Stan Satter

May 12, 2017

Mary S.

I had the biggest crush on Michael when I was in high school. May he rest in peace and I mourn his loss with his family.

May 12, 2017

Mary M

I had the biggest crush on Michael Parks when I was a teenager. May he is rest in peace

and I mourn his loss with his family. Mary M.

May 12, 2017

Friend

Eileen Guzman

Oriana and James, So sorry to hear of the passing of Michael. My heart hurts so much. I met Michael back in the 80's when he came to Hamburger Hamlet in Century City as a Customer. Soon after he became a loving friend. He was my Sunshine when he walked through that Door. He had his own Coffee Cup with the name Michael printed on it.I served him with that cup every timehe came in. I

May 12, 2017

Annie S.

I fell in love with Michael Parks the first time time I saw him ride onto my tv screen in Then Came Bronson. I was about 14 then, and all through the decades my crush on him never waned. Rest in Peace, dear Michael. I'll always be your fan.

May 12, 2017

Annie S.

May 12, 2017

Kevin Maxon

Very sad to hear of his passing. As teenagers, my brother and I watched "Bronson" and dreamed of living life on the road. Thanks for the inspiration.

May 12, 2017

Godspeed, Mr. Parks. I enjoyed your performances while growing up. To young to leave us tho. My condolences to the family.
Thank you, for sharing yourself and being
a great fine actor to the world.

Wanda Parry,
Victoria, B.C.
Canada

May 12, 2017

Michelle D

I never could remember the name of the show but I always remembered the song. I remember watching it, it was a great show, he was great for the part. I'm just one of so many who really appreciated it. I'm so sorry not to have seen more of his accomplishments but even more sorry to see that he has left us. Such sorrow for his family. He will be missed.

May 12, 2017

hazel tessier

One fine actor who gave his audience his all.

May 12, 2017

I loved watching "Then Came Bronson". Sympathy to the family.

May 12, 2017

A Fan,Jimmy Holsinger

May 12, 2017

A great actor that will be missed. Rest in peace.

May 12, 2017

Rev. John Gowdy

Sympathy, love, and prayers to the family. He was admired and appreciated

May 12, 2017

Donna Copman

Dear Oriana and James,
I was stunned and immensely saddened by the death of Michael. I have been a fan since 1965, when I was 13 and saw Wild Seed. I own the movie and I have seen it over 200 times. I was the ultimate fan. I've followed Michael's career aever since. I'm now 64 years old. His death is stunning like that of a family member. I pray he will rest in peace.

May 12, 2017

Bobby Wilcox

Close to the same age as Michael,, so I've had a chance to follow his career all the way. A special talent and easily overlooked for bigger names, but man could he act. He will never get the aclaim to match his performing, but still will be sorely missed. As time goes on, we will all start to realize just how greatly we were entertained. With a sad heart I send out prayers to his family and for his memory.

May 12, 2017

Patty Adams

Fascinating character actor. His talent and charisma will be solely missed. Condolences to family and friends.

May 12, 2017

Darlene

To the Parks family I am very sorry for the
loss of your dear loved one Michael Parks.
May the words Jesus spoke at John 6:44
be a comfort to you all at this difficult
time.

May 12, 2017

Jack Mozgai

My condolences to Michaels family and friends.
His character of Jim Bronson sent out a message of always choosing right over wrong and helping others whenever possible. Noble standards which are fading in today's world.
I hope to meet him once I get farther down the long lonesome highway. I will think of him each time I ride, he has already been a lifelong inspiration and companion.
Gods speed old friend.

Captain Jack Mozgai
Edison, NJ

Posted by Jack Mozgai

May 12, 2017

My condolences to Oriana and James sorry for the loss of your dear husband and father Michael Parks. May the hope that God's word gives us for those we lost in death be comforting, faith building and encouraging to you (John 6:40) ~ Linda, Queens, NY

May 11, 2017

Friend

James Bronson

Michael was not only a prolific actor and a great singer but he was and still is is an insperation to how my life is what it is today , the series Then came Bronson changed my life in ways I cannot even begin to say. and it was through that series that i have been riding for 48 years and my whole family also rides and enjoys the biker lifestyle . My son Michael was named after him , this is how much, and again so much more that he was an influence my life, This is truly a sad day !!! My love and condolences go out to his wife and son, but his spirit will go on living in our hearts. God Bless Michael your in Gods hands now and God speed on your journey down that Long Lonsome Highway .

May 11, 2017

J. Langley

Michael will forever be remembered as the man with the greatest charisma of all time. He traveled in a cloud of Peace and shared that with All. Rest In Peace you dear man. Condolences to Family and Friends.

May 11, 2017

Mary Anne Mertz

Michael was a wonderful actor that will be greatly missed. Love the Then Came Bronson series. The character that he played in the show was a great influence in my family's life's . Rest In Peace.. you will be greatly missed.

May 11, 2017

Veronika Guttenberger

I loved "Then Came Bronson". My dad and I watched it every week. Michael Parks was a wonderful actor.

May 11, 2017

Please accept our sincere condolences. May the family find comfort in the God of peace. (Romans 15:33) during this stressful time.


McKnight Family

May 11, 2017

Michael was a great talent. He was underrated as an actor and should have received many awards for his outstanding acting. He will be missed by many, many admirers. A Fan

May 11, 2017

Tom Bates

I Never miss one of his show, Then came Bronson.
R.I.P. as you travel to Heaven on your Motorcycle.

May 11, 2017

Kathy Gillen

Loved Michael Parks from his Then Came Bronson Days; always loved his voice and thought he was a fine actor. Will miss him

May 11, 2017

Larry Muirhead

R I P Michael.. you will be missed.. condolence,s to the family

May 11, 2017

Naomi Cullum

So sorry to hear of the loss of Michael Parks. Totally enjoyed his tv series, "Then Came Bronson" and films that followed. He exuded that genuine cool...may he R.I.P.

May 11, 2017

Matthew McGuire

May 11, 2017

Rand & Betty Claussen

We are SO sorry for your loss! Not only could he act, he could SING! RIP, "Topper"!
Thinking of the entire family!
With love,
Rand & Betty

May 11, 2017

S Wq

To all family, friends and viewers of his performances my sincere condolence. May those precious moments that he gave you fill you with joy, peace and strength when you are missing him. May the God of peace and strength be your stronghold.

May 11, 2017

Diane

My Sincere sympathy to the family. Please be comfortedited knowing GOD'said kingdom will bring peace.We pray for it. MATTHEW 6:10

May 11, 2017

tony dombrow

all i can say is you changed my life because of THEN CAME BRONSON.
been all over the country on motorcycles and still do to this day.
as a young kid it makes you wonder what its like to just quit your job and just hit the road and never look back.
i have the all seeing eye of god tattooed on the back of my leg because of the impression you made on me.

May 11, 2017

My condolences to the family, friends and fans of this talented actor. He was truly a credit to his craft. May the family find comfort in each other and in God during this difficult time.

May 11, 2017

Mark Casillas

I waited for every new show of "Then Came Bronson" as a teen ager and dreamed of the day I could own a Harley Davidson Sportster motorcycle ....... Thanks for a great adventure show !!! Rest in peace, Michael Parks.

Posted by Mark Casillas

May 11, 2017

Please accept my condolences for Park's family. He is vividly recalled for his roles and I am glad that he found success in his chosen craft and field. It is a very competitive arena. God has been gracious to all mankind giving them the benefit and consequence of choice. Ecclesiastes 3:22.

May 11, 2017

Jim B

RIP Michael, Ill take a ride and think about the inspiration of you and TCB

May 11, 2017

I remember seeing "Wild Seed" on tv when I was a kid and even as a kid, I was struck by Michael Parks in such a way that made me realize what being an actor really meant; in particular, a really great actor. I was so thrilled in later years to see him in the "Kill Bill" movies and was again floored by how great he was. In my opinion, he never received the full recognition he deserved and it is always such a huge loss to lose the illumination of a lovely talented soul. My deep sympathy for the family's loss.

May 11, 2017

Michael Ruede

God Bless you Michael Parks and may you RIP. You gave me great feelings and memories watching you on Then Came Bronson as a young kid you got me interested in motorcycling and I still have you singing on my iPhone. Thank you !

May 11, 2017

Doc

There goes Bronson. Hope it's a great ride into your sunset.

May 11, 2017

A fine actor, my condolences to his family and friends. Lewis

May 11, 2017

Deborah Ellis

To the families and friends of Michael Parks. I do not know the families personally but we all lose love ones in death. I read about his passing in tbe news so I just want to send my deepest condolences to the families. May God give all of you comfort and peace at this difficult time. I really enjoyed his many shows. I know he will be missed by many. Please rely on God for strength and peace, he will strengthen you.

May 11, 2017

Les Breese

My sincerest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow fans of Michael Parks. I never missed an episode of "Then Came Bronson," and years later, I purchased the entire series on DVD...Michael was surely a gifted and talented actor.

May 11, 2017

Michael Mendola

Condolences to Michaels family and friends was a childhood hero of mine as Jim Bronson and a inspiration to me till this day loved his music.I will miss Mr Michael Parks R.I.P. Michael.

May 11, 2017

I remember, Then Came Bronson very well. I was fresh out of Nam and saw the series for the first time, bought a Harley and took off and for the next 6yrs had many great adventures...Rest in Peace Michael...Thanks for the inspiration...RDM

May 11, 2017

V. Tipton Schoeneberg

A great actor he will be truly missed. God bless his family & give you strength in this time of need.

May 11, 2017

Buddy Litz

Michael was a one of the greatest. I grew up watching "Then Came Bronson" and would imitate him when riding my bike. The memories of that show just make me smile to this day. God Speed Michael and my sincerest condolences to the Parks family.

May 11, 2017

april conway

What can I say - Then Came Bronson, Bus Riley's Back In Town - his first album - all of these and more made me a FOREVER fan. My thoughts and prayers are with Michael's Family.

May 11, 2017

Buckeye Admirer

Loved your performances, Mr. Parks, since "Wild Seed" and "Then Came Bronson." RIP, sir. Condolences to the Parks family, friends, colleagues, and admirers everywhere.

May 11, 2017

Martha

Sorry for your loss. May you find peace and hope by trusting in God. Romans 15:13.

May 11, 2017

jerry helfrich

Take Care, Mr. Parks. You were an enjoyment to watch for many of us.

May 11, 2017

Jennifer Rush

So very sad to hear of Michael Parks'death, loved him in Then Came Bronson, loved his work with Tarantino, what a great actor and so glad we have his films for memories, very sincere sympathy to his family and others close to him. He was super cool on that Harley!

May 11, 2017

Vince Nunzio

Enjoyed all of his work thru the years.
May he RIP.

May 11, 2017

M C

I agree with the person here who said Michael was a "cool" actor. His acting seemed effortless. He never over or under-acted. Always very natural.
My condolences to his family, friends and fans like me who will miss him.

May 11, 2017

Sheila

A fine actor. Godspeed Michael.

May 11, 2017

Scott K. Gordon

Dear Jimmy,

I am so sorry to hear that your Dad passed-away. May you, and all of your Dad's family, find Peace at this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Scott (from Little Gus' in Dallas)

May 11, 2017

T Fox

Michael Parks was perhaps the best actor I ever saw. His multiple roles in Kill bill were incredible. I am heartbroken I will never have the opportunity to see what he would have created.RIP and my sincere sympathy to your family.

May 10, 2017

I'm so sorry, my deepest sympathies to the Parks family. May our heavenly father comfort you at this most difficult time.

May 10, 2017

Robin Price

Awww....Even as a kid I really liked him. He truly was a genius. God bless him and his family. Coolest actor ever. He really can't be replaced.

May 10, 2017

christian

My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Michael. Rest assured life is precious to our Creator. He promises to act in our behalf.
1 Corinthians 15:26

May 10, 2017

jim kelly

enjoyed bronson every week. condolences, RIP

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Memorial Events
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May

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Memorial service

1:00 p.m.

Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary

1218 Glendon Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024

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Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary

1218 Glendon Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024

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