The Okoboji, Iowa community is mourning the reported loss of Butch Parks, a beloved local figure and longtime owner of Parks Marina and the iconic Barefoot Bar on East Lake Okoboji. Parks passed away on January 7, 2026, leaving behind a legacy woven into the very fabric of life on the Iowa Great Lakes.
For decades, Butch Parks was more than a business owner — he was a steward of lakeside tradition and a familiar presence to residents, seasonal visitors, and boating enthusiasts alike. Under his guidance, Parks Marina grew from a humble marina into a vibrant destination that attracted families, friends, and generations of Okoboji lovers. His vision helped shape an inviting waterfront culture where memories were made, from early morning fishing excursions to warm summer evenings at the Barefoot Bar.
The Barefoot Bar, known for its laid‑back lakeside atmosphere and live music, became a beloved gathering place under Parks’ leadership. His passion for the local community and genuine interest in people made him approachable and respected by many. Whether greeting customers by name or sharing a story by the lake, Butch’s presence brought comfort and warmth to all who knew him.
Friends, colleagues, and neighbors remember him not just for his entrepreneurial success, but for his kindness, mentorship, and the connections he helped foster throughout the region. His contributions extended beyond business — they enriched the social and cultural life of Okoboji and left a lasting imprint on the community’s identity.
Details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services have not yet been widely announced. As Okoboji reflects on this profound loss, thoughts and condolences are extended to his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. While his absence leaves a deep void, the legacy of laughter, fellowship, and lakeside joy that Butch Parks helped cultivate will endure in the hearts of many.
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