John Walker

On January 12, 1955, he was born the second of five children to Loren and Barbara Walker in Los Angeles, California. If mentioned though, John would always say he was born in Hollywood. He graduated with a Bachelors from San Jose State University in Business Administration, with a love on the side for geology. His love of the outdoors inspired many of his adventures; he rock climbed in Yosemite Valley, backpacked in Lake Tahoe, and even hiked the Pacific Crest Trail with his brother, Tom.

So it was probably no surprise, when he got the opportunity to travel for a job, he dropped everything and moved to the Seychelles Islands, a tropical Eden in the middle of the Indian Ocean. Working at the USAF Tracking Station gave him the chance to indulge in his favorite hobbies, from golfing around palm trees to deep-sea fishing. One of John's favorite pictures shows him on a small sailboat, grinning as he shows off the enormous swordfish he had caught. In the Seychelles, John made life-long friends, got a tan, and also met the mother of his children, Stella Lalande.

John described his best accomplishment as “his girls”, although the time he fixed the broken dryer came in a close second. Their photos served as bookmarks for his expansive collection of paperback action books. His dream was for his daughters to attend college. A dream he helped fulfill by working long days at the various aerospace companies he was employed with throughout his career. He started off his day simply, with a newspaper and a cup of coffee. Ending his work days by turning on the sports channel and settling into his man-cave on his favorite blue couch. But always welcoming for a heart-felt talk or to offer words of experience and encouragement.

After retirement from Northrop Grumman, John was ready to buy an RV and pack his duffel bag, excited to start traveling once again. But first, he wanted to renovate his house for his daughters. He spent the summer before his death happily sprucing up the house with a new roof, a freshly stuccoed exterior, and planning a celebratory barbecue to mark the end of his favorite season.

John Walker will always be remembered for his generous heart, witty humor, and the unconditional love he gave to those close to him. He will be missed dearly.

A private family viewing was held, but all are welcome to attend his memorial service at Swan-Law Funeral Home on Saturday, September 1st at 1 p.m. and the celebration of his life held after the service at his residence. Flowers and condolences may be sent to 9100 E. Florida Ave, Apt 5-307, Denver, CO, 80247.