Walter Parazaider, Co-Founder and Saxophonist of Chicago, Dies at 81
On June 17, 2026, the music world lost a pioneer of rock‑with‑horns when Walter Parazaider, the saxophonist and co‑founder of Chicago, died at 81. The Chicago group confirmed the death in a statement posted to social media, noting that Parazaider had succumbed to complications of Alzheimer’s disease.
Born March 14, 1945, in Maywood, Illinois, Parazaider began his musical journey as a clarinetist before helping to form the band that would become Chicago in 1967. The group, originally called the Chicago Transit Authority, started as a trio of rock and jazz musicians who blended a horn section with a traditional rock lineup. Parazaider’s mastery of saxophone, flute, and clarinet helped give the band its distinctive “rock & roll band with horns” sound.
During the 1970s, Chicago released a string of hits that remain staples of classic‑rock playlists. Songs such as “25 or 6 to 4,” “Saturday in the Park,” and “Just You ’n’ Me” feature Parazaider’s saxophone riffs, while his memorable flute solo on “Colour My World” showcased the group’s musical breadth. The band’s success was built on the collaborative energy of its founding members, who rehearsed in the basement of Parazaider’s mother’s home and booked early shows at local bars.
Parazaider stayed with Chicago until his retirement in 2018. In April 2021, he publicly disclosed that he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. He wrote on the band’s website that the diagnosis had shocked his wife, daughters, and himself, but that he was working hard and refusing to give up.
The band’s statement on June 17 expressed deep sorrow at the loss, saying, “Chicago is heartbroken at the sad news of Walter Parazaider’s passing this morning. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and countless Chicago fans who are all grieving his loss today.” It praised Parazaider for conceiving the horn section and for his work ethic, noting that he was “the one who did the hard work to book shows for the young, unknown band, performing top 40 covers at local bars in and around Chicago.” Parazaider’s daughter, Felicia Helen Parazaider, posted a tribute on Facebook, writing, “I love you poppy, my Pal…You coloured our world.” The band’s obituary also noted that he is survived by his wife, JacLynn, and daughters Laura and Felicia.
Parazaider’s death follows a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia and a leading cause of death worldwide. While no cure exists, patients often receive palliative care in hospice settings, as was the case for Parazaider.
Chicago’s legacy in the music industry is significant. The band has sold more than 100 million records worldwide and earned numerous awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020. Parazaider’s contributions to the band’s sound and to the broader genre of rock with horns are widely recognized by fans and musicians alike.
At present, Chicago has not announced any plans to replace Parazaider’s role or to continue touring without him. The band’s official channels remain the primary source for updates on future activities.
