Eugene Franklin "Gene" Walker
Feb 21, 1937 - Jul 29, 2024
Norwalk
Eugene Franklin "Gene" Walker of Norwalk passed away Monday, July 29, 2024, following a brief illness.
He was born Feb. 21, 1937, in Mansfield, to Samuel and Mabel Walker. Gene spent his early years in Mansfield before his family relocated to Norwalk, where he attended Norwalk High School. After high school, Gene proudly served in U.S. Air Force with stations in Texas and New York. Upon his honorable discharge, Gene returned to Norwalk, where he met the love of his life, Barbara (Smith) Walker, his wife of 57 years. The couple settled in Milan and raised their son, Robbie, building a life filled with love and laughter. While living in Milan, Gene had a long career at Clevite which later became Tenneco Automotive.
Gene was a man of unwavering dedication and strong values. His commitment to family was unshakeable. With a strong sense of honor and integrity guiding him, Gene lived a life that earned him the respect of those around him. His remarkable ability to connect with others meant he never met a stranger. Those who knew Gene knew he found happiness in bowling, golf, playing cards, and spending time with loved ones. Gene was a dedicated member of VFW and American Legion and was active in his community. In recent years, he and Barb cherished their travels to Atlanta, visiting their son Rob, his wife Amy, and their three children, who brought immense pride and joy to Gene's life. His love for his son and his three grandkids was his greatest delight. And whenever Grandpa Gene was behind the wheel for carpool duty, a trip to Dairy Queen was always a sweet bonus for the kids and their friends.
He is survived by his wife, Barbara of Norwalk; son, Rob (Amy) of Atlanta, Georgia; grandchildren, Mason, Charlotte, and Mary Jane, all of Atlanta, Georgia; and many loving nieces and nephews.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Mabel; brothers, William and Arthur; sister, Lillian Wooten; and Lewis Ellison.
Visitation for friends and loved ones will be 4-6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, at Foster Funeral Home & Crematory, 410 Main St., Huron, Ohio, 44839. Gene's celebration of life will be 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, at American Legion, 406 W. Main St., Norwalk, Ohio, 44857. Gene's graveside memorial service will be private for the immediate family at a later date.
Foster Funeral Home & Crematory, Huron, is assisting the family.
Online condolences may be shared at
www.fosterfh.com.

Published by Norwalk Reflector on Aug. 7, 2024.