Obituary of Robert Walker

Robert D. Walker "Bob" "The Lord said take my hand and I will lead you to a place where there is no pain or suffering. And he took His hand and found a place of peace and contentment." Age 81, late of Joliet, passed away Monday, March 1, 2010 from medical complications following surgery at Loyola University Medical Center, surrounded by his devoted family. Born August 21, 1928 on the family farm in Braidwood, he was the son of the late Ted and Lila (nee Hooper) Walker, of New Lenox. He attended a one-room school house through eighth grade, he later graduated from Joliet Township High School, Class of 1946. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, Class of 1950, and was a member of Acacia Fraternity. Bob Walker, if asked, would call himself a simple farmer. His career in agri-business was however, anything but simple, touching hundreds of people and developing thousands of local acres into productive farmland. Starting with $5000 and working from his home, he was a co-founder of Ty-Walk Liquid Sales in 1962, growing its grain and fertilizer operations to four states at its peak. This success allowed Bob to sponsor many local softball and baseball teams and he actively supported the 4-H Federation. He was also responsible for several area agricultural scholarships. The Walker family donated the land for the Liberty Junior High in New Lenox. He was a man of integrity and generosity which was evident in all he said and did. His gentle personality and patience was freely given to all and earned him much respect in the community. Survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Laura "Lol" (nee Lamb); four devoted daughters, Wendy Walker, Lynn Ann (John) McKinven, Nancy (Tom) Waldeck and Patti (Steve) Kruse; he was proud of his ten grandchildren, Candice Gibbons, Josh Gibbons, Zach (Crystal Jessen) Gibbons, Ashley Gibbons, Kendall McKinven, Walker McKinven, Saxon McKinven, Meredith Kruse, Katelyn Kruse and Peter Kruse; one sister, Dorothy (Walter) Lewis of Apache Junction, AZ; two brothers, Roe (Marcia) Walker of Grandbury, TX and Daniel (Ginnie) Walker of Cincinnati, OH; many special nieces, nephews and their extended families. Funeral Services for Robert D. Walker will be Friday, March 5, 2010 at First Presbyterian Church, 805 Western Avenue, Joliet where he will Lie in State from 10:00 a.m. until time of services at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be in Woodlawn Memorial Park. Memorials in his name to the National Parkinson's Foundation, 1501 NW 9TH Avenue/Bob Hope Road, Miami, FL 33136 or charity of your choice would be appreciated. Visitation Thursday 2-8 p.m. at: FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet For information: (815) 741-5500