James A. Walker, Sr.
April 28, 1933 – September 11, 2019
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, September 16, 2019 at 11:00 AM at St. Clare Catholic Church, 23126 M-86, Centreville, MI 49032, with Frs. Antony Rajesh and R. Mathias as celebrants. A time of visitation will take place at the church one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place at a later date at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Clare Catholic Church or Heartland Hospice.
Obituary
Age 86, passed away at home on Wednesday, September 11, 2019 with his family at his side. Jim was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on April 28, 1933, the son of the late George “Chi” and Elizabeth (Ballinger) Walker. He served his country honorably in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the Korean War. Jim retired from James River in 1993 after 42 years of employment. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed traveling and volunteering. Jim was a family man and especially loved spending time with his grandkids, to whom he was affectionately known as “Ol’ Grandpa”. He also served on the Kalamazoo County Sherriff’s Reserves and was voted “Man of the Year” by his colleagues. He was a long-time member of St. Clare Catholic Church in Centreville. On October 15, 1955, Jim was united in marriage to the former Oma Jean Wahl, who survives. He is also survived by his children, Carl Walker, George (Katherine) Walker, Kathe (Dale) Burnham, Mary (James) Williams, James Walker, Jr. and Richard (Laura) Walker; 13 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Kathe, Mary and Family’s, Sorry for your loss. Thinking of all of you at this time. Sending prays and hugs. Love you, Lori
Kathe and Mary… Our condolences to you and your families. So happy your dad was able to go to D.C. with the Talons Out Honor Flight program. What a great memory you have from that day, as well as the many, many more memories you have of your dad. Please know that Bill and I are thinking of all of you at this sad time and we are here if you should need anything.
Cousins, We have many fond memories of Uncle Jim – the trips to Cedar Point, playing cards, and his good sense of humor. He was a kind, patient man who made us feel like we were part of your family. Aunt Oma, we hope you find comfort in your memories during this time of loss. Chris and Dawn
Dear Oma, Terry and I are saddened to hear of Jim’s passing, but also know he’s in a much better place. We’ll always have such fond memories of our cruises together and all of the state basketball weekends! Our love and prayers to you and your family. Terry & Becky Barnes