Groundbreaking Wash U Allergist, Immunologist Charlie Parker Dies

According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Washington University School of Medicine research scientist Charlie Parker, 83, died this week after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

(Read the Post-Dispatch article here.)

Parker grew up in Webster Groves where he graduated from the high school in 1947, the Post-Dispatch article states.

His research not only helped better treatments for allergy and asthma sufferers, but the Post also reports Parker developed penicillin skin-testing which determines if patients are at high risk for anaphylaxis.

Parker, a professor of medicine at Washington University for more than four decades, reportedly founded Washington University’s division of allergy and immunology in 1964.

Parker's body was cremated, according to the Post, but a memorial service is scheduled for 3 p.m. May 19 at the First Congregational Church of Webster Groves, 10 West Lockwood.

Parker is survived by his wife and four children, among other family members.