Clinton Joseph Parish Sr., age 75, of Bay Mills, Michigan, died February 27, 2025, in his home after a short illness. He was born on August 6, 1949, to Clayton “Bud” and Leila (Lufkins) Parish at home on Bay Mills Reservation, Michigan. He was tied closely to his community and his absence will be profound to many.
Being a Bay Mills Tribal member and bear (mukwa) clan, his occupations were always in the protection of his tribe and community members. He was a Great Lakes tribal fisherman throughout the years, a conservation officer, Tribal Chairman, shift manager, and Security Manager at Bay Mills Resort & Casino. He was a helper and a giver and would do what he could when asked.
He was proud of his children and loved his grandchildren and great grands immensely. He cared for his friends, and he stood up for what he believed in and for others. His most known quality was his humor and smile. So many people have been blessed with the memories of the laughs he provided, often at his own expense.
He will be missed by many but has taken his journey to meet his many predeceased family members: his parents; two sisters, Luella Raymond and Shirley Kincheloe; his brother-in-law, Don Kincheloe; three brothers, Alan, Gordon “Buster”, Phillip “Phoodah”. A large loss to him was his son’s mother and brother, Renee and Matthew Thebo and his granddaughter, Alexandra. He will be reunited with them all.
He leaves behind many to mourn his loss: his children, Laura Parish; CJ Jr. (DeeDee) Parish, Brittany Teeple, Destiney (Kevin) Aguilar; grandchildren, Gabriel, Daniel Jr., James, Novi, CJ III, Azariah, Alliyah, Parker, and Amiri; and many great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, L. John Lufkins, Dennis, and Gary “Nav” Parish; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was proud of his heritage and was also an attending member of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Church where he tried to be every Sunday.
Visitation was held on Monday, March 3, 2025, from 1:00 PM till 2:00 PM at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic Church, in Bay Mills. Mass of Christian Burial followed at 2:00 PM.
Luncheon immediately followed at the Armella Parker Center.
Traditional burial in the Spring at Mission Hill Cemetery, to be announced.
Family Life Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.
Obituary As Submitted by Family
