Walter Parazaider, founding member of legendary rock band Chicago, died at 2:10 a.m. Wednesday at age 81 after a years-long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
His wife JacLynn confirmed his death to TMZ, saying she was at his side in hospice care during his final moments.
“He had put up a good fight with Alzheimer’s and unfortunately it ended tonight. We are going to miss him for sure … We were married for 59 years and we had 59 wonderful years.”
Parazaider cofounded the rock group The Big Thing in 1967, which eventually became the Chicago Transit Authority before shortening to Chicago in 1969. He performed in the band’s brass and woodwind section alongside Lee Loughnane and James Pankow for nearly five decades.
The musician actively performed with Chicago until his retirement in 2016, contributing to hits including “25 or 6 to 4,” “Saturday in the Park,” and “If You Leave Me Now.”
Parazaider revealed his Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2021. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of Chicago’s celebrated class in 2016, capping a career that spanned approximately five decades with the group.
His signature flute solo on “Color My World” and saxophone performance on “Just You ‘n’ Me” showcased his instrumental versatility throughout the band’s run.
Parazaider is survived by his wife JacLynn and their daughters Laura and Felicia. A memorial service is set to take place in the future.
