Parker A. Behm, 78, of Troy, passed away peacefully on January 1, 2026, after a long but dignified battle with Frontotemporal Dementia.
Parker lived an extraordinary life as a devoted husband, father, and grandpa. He was deeply passionate about his work and took great pride in providing meaningful experiences for his family. His love for them was evident in everything he did, and spending time together was always a top priority.
An innovative and driven entrepreneur, Parker owned a real estate company and built more than 100 homes throughout Miami County. His business ventures were as varied as they were successful and included owning three bowling centers in the county, opening a trophy and awards business, and starting a computer store. Ultimately, he discovered his greatest passion in revitalizing buildings in downtown Troy. He received several awards for his vision and leadership in bringing new life and businesses back to the downtown area, including his forward-thinking idea to remodel empty second and third floors into usable spaces. Another major project he proudly took on was remodeling and filling the Sherwood Center.
A graduate of Purdue University with a degree in engineering, Parker was always thinking about his next big project. He was perhaps best known for his big, hearty laugh. Tenants often knew he was in the building before they saw him, thanks to his unmistakable, echoing laughter. He was also known for the big hugs he freely gave to family, friends, and anyone who needed one.
Parker generously gave his time and energy to the community he loved. He willingly and enthusiastically served on numerous nonprofit boards, including Troy Main Street and the Troy Recreation Board, and was an active member of the Troy Noon Optimist because he believed strongly in making Troy a better place. He also found great satisfaction in mentoring youth and volunteering in various capacities within the Troy schools. In recognition of his service and impact, Parker was honored as Distinguished Citizen of the Year by the Troy Chamber of Commerce in 1994.
Parker had a love for the arts, especially the theater. He was a passionate supporter of local productions and greatly enjoyed attending performances. He proudly supported both the Troy Civic Theatre and the Arbogast Performing Arts Center, believing strongly in the importance of the arts to a vibrant community.
Outside of work, Parker took great joy in planning trips with his family and creating lasting memories together. He loved flying, motorcycles, car races, anything fast, playing games, and especially learning new games. He had a lifelong love of learning and was always eager to try something new.
Parker will be remembered for his vision, generosity, laughter, warm embraces, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. His legacy lives on in the buildings he restored, the lives he touched, and the family he loved so deeply.
Parker is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jane (Hoak) Behm; son Andrew Behm of Dayton; daughter Heather (Rob) Davey of Troy; brother Tom (Susan) Behm of Troy; grandchildren Megan, Sarah, Natalie, Rebecca and Jonathan Davey of Troy; Carter Behm of Marysville. Parker was born to Harold E. (Kate) Behm and to Virginia L. Layman (Clyde) McNew in Piqua Ohio, who preceded him in death. His brother, Scott Behm, also preceded him in death.
Visitation will be held at Baird Funeral Home in Troy, Ohio, on January 19 from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., with a memorial service to follow at 5:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Parker Behm’s memory to the Troy Civic Theater or Arbogast Performing Arts Center (APAC), organizations that brought him great joy.
Contributions to APAC may be made in the following ways:
• By mail:
Arbogast Performing Arts Center
500 S. Dorset Road
Troy, OH 45373
(Please note “In Memory of Parker Behm” on the check.)
• Online:
Donations may be made through our website support page at:
https://www.arbogastpac.com/partner
*include Parker’s name in the dedication or notes section.
Contributions to Troy Civic Theater may be made by mail:
Troy Civic Theater
PO Box 491
Troy, Ohio 45373
(Please note “In Memory of Parker Behm” on the check.)
