James F. Walker

James F. Walker, 66, of Roanoke, Va., left us unexpectedly, on Thursday, to be with the Lord. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend to so many, and a hero to his son. He was born in Chicago, Ill. and moved to Fremont, Michigan. He attended Fremont High School and graduated from Western Michigan University. Jim was also a member of the Phi Sigma Epsilon Fraternity. After graduating at the top of his ROTC class, he was immediately sent into combat in Viet Nam with the 69th Armored Division. He received three Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star from his service. After returning, he became
a Marketing/Advertising executive in Chicago, Detroit, Atlanta , Charlotte, New York and Columbus. The Military was always his love and he created many programs to help veterans and their families. He was honored by VFW Post 7854 and American Legion 127 for his service to veterans. He was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Marjorie Walker, of Fremont, Mich. He is survived by his wife, Becky(Gravett); his daughter, Jimmi Williams, of Florida; his son, Jason and wife, Jenica Walker of Connecticut; daughter and son-in-law, Lisa (Wall) and Butch Garger; and grandchildren Dylan and Lucy; sister, Lauri and Joe Latack, of Tucson, Ariz.; and brother, Bob and wife, Jane Walker of Ohio; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be at Oakey's Funeral Home, South Chapel on Sunday, April 25, 2010, from 6 to 8 p.m. Services will be held at the same location by the Reverend Limerick on Monday, April 26, 2010, at 10 a.m. Interment will be at Evergreen Burial Park immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Homeless Veterans, Firebase Hope, Bldg 76, VA Medical Center, Salem, Va. 24153.