John Edward Walker

John Edward Walker, 82, passed away on August 4, 2023, just 24 days shy of his 83rd birthday. John was born in Monroe, Michigan, to the late Eugene and Pauline Walker. Eugene began teaching John how to play golf when he was 8 years old. He grew up on the golf course, caddied every summer, and made two holes in one. He played some of the most prestigious golf courses: Pebble Beach, Cypress Point, and St. Andrews in Scotland, to name a few.

John played football and the clarinet while a student at Monroe High School. High school is where he first locked eyes with Joan Clark wearing her long red ponytail that he loved. They soon became sweethearts and married on September 20, 1958. Together they had 68 years of love, family, and friendship.

After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toledo, John started a career that led to becoming the National Marketing Sales Director of Owens Corning Fiberglass. His work took him throughout the United States and Europe. Never having met a stranger, many people he met on his travels shared their stories, listened to his stories, asked for his advice, and went away with a new friend.

In 2006, retirement brought John and Joan to Hot Springs Village. John loved the golf courses, living on Lake Balboa, and evening boat rides. He enjoyed volunteering at Habitat for Humanity and St. Jude’s Center for Childhood Cancer. John loved to spend quiet time on the deck overlooking the lake and watching all the birds who visited his many bird feeders. He and Joan also continued their yearly New Orleans trip to attend the Jazz Festival; they have seen many legendary Jazz artists.

John had many roles throughout his life: son, husband, father, businessman, volunteer, teacher, and friend. His humorous stories, infectious laughter, and boundless optimism made his company a joy. 

John greeted each morning, “Isn’t it a wonderful day!”

Those who will miss John most will be his wife, Joan; children Kimberly Walker and John Walker, Jr (Rebecca); grandchildren Ashley Walker, John Walker III, William Walker, Olivia Walker, Scarlett Walker, Mia Lawson, and Lauren Ward; great-grandchild, Walker Padgett; and so many wonderful friends.

John was welcomed to Heaven by his children Paula Lawrence and Gregory Walker; and grandchildren Jessica and Jordan Lawrence.

A Celebration of John’s Life will be held at Cedar Vale Funeral Home at 1 pm Friday, August 11, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider memorials made to Arkansas Hospice or a charity of your choice.