Walter Parazaider, a founding member of the iconic rock band Chicago, has died at the age of 81.
The longtime saxophonist, flutist and backing vocalist passed away on Wednesday, June 17, according to statements from his wife, JacLynn Parazaider, and former Chicago drummer Tris Imboden.See More…
JacLynn confirmed to TMZ that Parazaider died at 2:10 a.m. while receiving hospice care. The musician had been living with Alzheimer’s disease since receiving his diagnosis six years ago.
“He had put up a good fight with Alzheimer’s and unfortunately it ended tonight. We are going to miss him for sure,” his wife told TMZ. “We were married for 59 years and we had 59 wonderful years.”
As one of Chicago’s original members, Parazaider helped shape the band’s signature horn-driven sound and remained a key part of the group for decades before retiring from touring in 2017 due to health issues.
Tris Imboden, who played drums for Chicago from the 1990s until 2018, announced Parazaider’s death in a heartfelt Facebook post, paying tribute to his former bandmate and friend.
My dear friend and brother Walt Parazaider passed last night. To say he will be sorely missed is a huge understatement. He along with Terry Kath and Danny Seraphine formed the nucleus of what later became the band Chicago. Walt, I am beyond honored to have known you and to have shared so many years, laughs,stages around the world, and so much music with you. Sending much love and many prayers to the Parazaider family during this most difficult time.”
Born on March 14, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, he was a talented multi-instrumentalist who performed saxophone, flute and clarinet, while also contributing backing vocals.
In 1967, Parazaider helped form the band that would eventually become Chicago alongside fellow musicians including Terry Kath, Robert Lamm and Lee Loughnane. The group’s unique blend of rock, jazz and pop music helped them become one of the most successful bands in music history.
Over a career spanning nearly five decades, Parazaider performed on countless hits, including songs such as 25 or 6 to 4, Saturday in the Park, If You Leave Me Now and You’re the Inspiration. Chicago sold more than 100 million records worldwide and earned induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.
Known for his musicianship and steady presence, Parazaider remained with Chicago longer than almost any other member. Health issues eventually led him to step away from touring in 2017. His band Chicago also paid tribute to Parazaider in a social media post.
The band wrote: “Chicago is heartbroken at the sad news of Walter Parazaider’s passing this morning. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and countless Chicago fans who are all grieving his loss today.A Rock & Roll band with horns was Walt’s idea. He put the band together and they rehearsed in the basement of his mother’s home. He is also the one who did the hard work to book shows for the young, unknown band, performing top 40 covers at local bars in and around Chicago.We are forever grateful for his contributions. Perhaps his greatest gift was bringing people together. This amazing music may have never been heard had it not been for Walt’s vision.”
According to PEOPLE, Parazaider is survived by his wife, JacLynn, and their two daughters, Laura and Felicia.
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