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Bellbrook celebrates student-athlete's life

Parker Bernard, 11, died during surgery to remove a brain tumor.

Family members are consoled following a memorial service for Parker Bernard, 11, who died last week during surgery to remove a brain tumor. His father, Scott Bernard, is at left in brown jacket. Parker was remembered as an outstanding athlete, friend, student and UD fan during a celebration of his life Friday at Bellbrook Middle School.

Jim Witmer Family members are consoled following a memorial service for Parker Bernard, 11, who died last week during surgery to remove a brain tumor. His father, Scott Bernard, is at left in brown jacket. Parker was remembered as an outstanding athlete, friend, student and UD fan during a celebration of his life Friday at Bellbrook Middle School.

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By Tom Archdeacon, Staff Writer Updated 2:22 AM Saturday, February 18, 2012

BELLBROOK — An overflow crowd filled the auditorium, the adjoining hallways and even part of the nearby gym at Bellbrook Middle School on Friday morning to celebrate the life of Parker Bernard, a gifted sixth-grade student, talented athlete, all-around charming presence — and dedicated Dayton Flyers basketball fan.

Parker died last Friday from complications following surgery to remove a recently discovered brain tumor.

Teachers, coaches, classmates and family members spoke from a stage that was flanked by two large portrait of the smiling 11-year-old.

“Parker left such a great memory, just look at the special kinds of people here,” Michael Jackson, one of Parker’s basketball coaches from the Dayton Salvation Army team said to the diverse, emotional crowd.

“The kind of legacy he left behind only comes from a great upbringing with parents who are involved in their kid’s life. It seems to me (his parents) did a great job with Parker,” Jackson said. “Young people, if you ever want to know what it’s like to live a great life, use Parker as your greatest example.”

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-2156 or tarchdeacon@DaytonDailyNews.com.

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