Gerald “Jerry” Ray Walker 77, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 17, 2020.
Jerry was born in Sidney, Nebraska, on February 13, 1943, to Raymond and Geraldine (Brundige) Walker. He graduated from the University of Nebraska with a bachelor’s degree in mechanized agriculture.
He worked for Caterpillar in Peoria, Illinois, was the manager for Apple’s Christmas Tree and Blueberry Farm in Culver. Jerry was also a Matco Tool distributor.
Whether restoring his classic Austin Mini Cooper, skillfully folding origami, creating stained glass designs, or tinkering on any assortment of projects, Jerry enjoyed working with his hands and the challenge of puzzling out a solution. Jerry also served in the U.S. Air Force National Guard. He was a member of the Indiana Christmas Tree Growers Association (including serving a term as president), the Hoosier Old Wheels Car Club, and Pretty Lake Trinity United Methodist Church, where he enjoyed singing in the choir.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 52 years Elaine; son Michael (Shelly) Walker of Lake Oswego, Oregon, and their children John, Faith, Cadence and Alex; daughter Krista (Scott) Nicely of Peoria, Illinois, and their children Elyse, Liam and Giselle; two brothers, Rick (Rhonda) Walker of Sidney, Nebraska, and Bryan (Julie) of Minco, Oklahoma; and sister Barbara (Jim) Watson of Dawnsonville, Georgia.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister Marni Anders.
Graveside services for Jerry will be held on Thursday June 25, 2020 at 11:00 A.M. at the New Oak Hill Cemetery ,Plymouth with Pastor Tami Boggs officiating . Memorial Contributions can be made to Pretty Lake Trinity United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 266 Plymouth, IN 46563, or The Muscular Dystrophy Association at mda.org.
John wade says
I really enjoyed working for Jerry at apples tree farm during high school many yes ago . Rest In Peace.
Sarah Schrems says
I am so sorry to hear of Jerry’s passing. I have such great memories of spending many of my childhood days picking blueberries and being an elf at the Christmas tree farm. Every time I drive to Culver and pass your house I remember how much fun I had. Love and hugs to the Walker family.
Sarah (Jack) Schrems.
Irene Scobey says
Elaine and family.. I was so very sorry to hear of Jerry’s passing. He was such a great guy.. I have a lot of fond memories going all the way back to the Christmas tree farming. It was always fun seeing him at the car shows also. Hugs mto you and the kids.. Rest in peace Jerry..
Mary Lee Rudd says
Elaine and family.
I was sad to hear that Jerry had passed. He was such a pleasure to see and always had a smile. I’m glad to have had the pleasure of meeting and getting to know you. The hurt you feel now will get better but it will always be different. RIP, Jerry.
Mary Lee Rudd
Valna Stettler says
So sorry to hear of Jerry’s passing. I am sure he is rejoicing in heaven. I will always treasure my memories of his voice in church choir, his origami skills (& always having a small pair of scissors with him), and his beautiful stained glass windows at church. Praying the Lord will wrap his arms around the Walker family and give you peace.
Barb Lowry says
Elaine,
I’m sorry to read of the loss of your husband. Thinking of you and your family during this sad time. Sending prayers for the strength and comfort you need for each day.
Love and sympathy,
Linda Langfeldt says
What a happy man!! I always enjoyed a quick visit at HOW meetings. The origami creations were great. Our thoughts & prayers are with all of you!!
Shelly Drang says
My deepest condolences.
Clara Woolley says
Elaine, Michael, and all family:
I was truly saddened to read of Jerry’s passing. There is now a hole in your heart where Jerry was. Sometimes one can walk around that hole and sometimes one falls in. Falling in does lessen as time goes by, however, life always continues the falling in moments. I will make sure that Jacqueline is informed.
Chris J Donovan says
A great loss to all. To me he was blessing a kind hearted soul who would make you laugh on your dullest of days. My friend. My mate. A legend.
Janet Newberg says
Elaine, Michael, and Krista,
Sending sympathy and caring thoughts to you and your family. Sorry for your loss.
Mary Lou Leavell Bernett says
Elaine,
I am so sorry to read of Jerry’s death. He was a great guy and we always enjoyed seeing you and your family, at the Christmas tree farm as well as out and about town. I remember Krista as a classmate of TJ’s and what a sweet gal she was, and I’m sure still is. Please let she and Michael know that they are remembered.
Also, please take care during this difficult time, and know that eventually the pain will ease a bit, not go away, but become easier to bear.
Tammy Lemert says
Elaine & Family, So sorry for your loss. Tammy Lemert – Fred’s daughter (HOW)
Kelli K Mills says
Elaine,
I was sorry to hear about the passing of Jerry. I’ve been thinking of you, Michael, Krista, and all of your family. I’ve been keeping you in my prayers.
Love,
Kelli Mills