Johnnie Parker Took Ralphie Program To New Level

BOULDER — If you know college football, you know Ralphie. Colorado's famed live buffalo is one of the most-recognized and most-celebrated mascots in the nation.

But what you might not know is the name of the man who took Ralphie from a well-known regional "secret" to a nationally known brand that has more than once been named as the best mascot in college sports.

It all came about through the work, dedication, and passion of the late Johnnie Parker, who took the Ralphie reins in 1985 and elevated her into a college football icon.

Parker, a 1962 CU grad, passed away on Dec. 11 at the age of 83.

"We asked him to take over and he just took off with it," said former CU Athletic Director Bill…