Chicago's Walter Parazaider, Founding Saxophonist, Passes Away at 81

WHO:

Deadline - Walter Parazaider, founding member of the jazz-rock band Chicago.

TMZ - Walter Parazaider's wife, JacLynn.

WHAT:

Deadline - Walter Parazaider died of complications from Alzheimer's disease.

TMZ - Walter Parazaider died at 2:10 AM while in hospice care.

WHERE:

Deadline - Walter Parazaider was in hospice care at the time of his death.

WHEN:

Deadline - Walter Parazaider died on June 17 at 2:10 AM.

WHY:

TMZ - Walter Parazaider had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease prior to his death.

HOW:

Deadline - Walter Parazaider's death was due to complications from Alzheimer's disease.

(UPDATED June 17, 2026 16:18 UTC)

Walter Parazaider, a founding member of the jazz-rock band Chicago, has passed away due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. He died at 2:10 AM while in hospice care, surrounded by loved ones. Parazaider's wife, JacLynn, was by his side during his final moments.