Movie producer William 'Steve' Parker dead at 79
By Curtis Lum
Advertiser Staff Writer
Theatrical and film producer William "Steve" Parker, who was a friend of the stars and was once married to actress Shirley MacLaine, died Sunday at his home in Honolulu. He was 79.
Parker was born in Germany on Feb. 6, 1922, and his family moved to the United States when he was 6. His father worked with the State Department and Parker said he "grew up all over the world."
William "Steve" Parker produced the movie "My Geisha."
Parker said he intended on becoming a civil engineer until he joined the Army as a paratrooper during World War II. He spent much of his tour of duty in New Guinea. It was during his time with the Army that Parker developed an interest in the theater. He helped organize shows and also starred in the productions.
After the war, Parker headed to New York, but he struggled as a stage actor. In 1953, he married another struggling young actress named Shirley Maclaine.
Unable to establish himself in the states, Parker moved to Japan where he became an award-winning movie and theater producer. Maclaine remained in Hollywood and her career rocketed. Parker also produced the movie "My Geisha," which starred MacLaine.
The couple had a daughter and divorced in 1983.
Five years later, Parker married the former Miki Hasegawa in Honolulu. The couple traveled the world and had homes in Honolulu, Tokyo and Italy.
Longtime friend Corky Alexander said Parker "led an exciting, blessed life among famous people, all of whom held him in the highest regard." Alexander is the publisher of the Tokyo Weekender, an English-language newspaper printed in Japan.
In Japan, Parker rubbed shoulders with royalty, top entertainers and was a friend of former sumo wrestler Jesse "Takamiyama" Kuhaulua, a native of Maui.
"Steve was always good company, quick with a quip and very responsive to others' jokes," Alexander said.
In addition to his wife, Parker is survived by daughter, Sachiko Murray; hanai daughter, Yukie Banks; and two grandchildren.
Private services. Donations may be made to the Honolulu Theatre for Youth, 2846 Ualena St., Honolulu, HI 96819.
