[July 12, 2014]SPRINGFIELD - Wilbur L. “Webb” Parlier,
a true cowboy who influenced the lives of numerous people across
Illinois, passed away May 26, 2014. In honor the Arenzville native,
a special memorial recognition ceremony will be held in the Coliseum
on the Illinois State Fairgrounds during the Western Horse Show
Sunday, July 13.
“Webb was a part of the Illinois State Fair family for close to
50 years, and I am saddened by the loss of such an amazing person,"
State Fair Manager Amy Bliefnick said. “He had a heart of gold, was
a true cowboy through and through and always was present to lend a
hand wherever needed.”
Born in 1938, Parlier went to Arenzville High School and was a
member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. In 1980, he married his wife,
Ruth Best, on July 17. Parlier’s cowboy spirit showed in his passion
for horse and rodeo competitions. He competed in rodeos for a
decade, riding bulls, and broncos. Parlier even had a trick riding
act. Eventually, his talent helped him become a nationally-known
horse trainer and show manager. Parlier used his experience and
knowledge to teach kids how to ride horses and show. During his
career, Parlier won numerous Appaloosa Horse titles at the national
and world level.
Over thirty years ago, Parlier worked and managed the Illinois State
Fair Western Horse Show. He conceived of and put together two of the
largest horse shows in the country, the Railsplitter Appaloosa Show
and the International Show in Springfield, Ill. Though he retired in
2013, Parlier remained a lifetime member of the Appaloosa Horse
Club.
“Webb was a shining example of the people who make the
Illinois State Fair so special,” Bliefnick said. “His legacy
will live on and he will truly be missed for decades.”
The memorial recognition ceremony will be held Sunday at noon
during the Illinois Western Show, in which Webb Parlier
dedicated so much of his life and love.
[Text received; JEFF SQUIBB, ILLINOIS
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE/ILLINOIS STATE FAIR]
