Walter Parazaider, a saxophonist and co-founding member of the rock band Chicago, dies at age 81. Multiple outlets report that he spent his early career with the band after it formed in the late 1960s, and that he played reed and wind instruments—including saxophone and flute—during much of its long run. Sources note that his performances are associated with well-known songs, including saxophone contributions to “Just You ‘n’ Me” and a flute solo on “Colour My World.”
Several reports say Parazaider’s death follows a prolonged illness and complications related to Alzheimer’s disease. Variety and others report that he had been dealing with Alzheimer’s for years before retiring from the band in 2017. Family members and the band issue statements acknowledging his role in shaping Chicago’s sound and describing him as a key creative force behind the horn-driven direction of the group. Parazaider’s death is announced in outlets on or around June 17, with some reports characterizing the final stage of his care as hospice.
