David James WALKER

DAVID JAMES WALKER David, 89 years of age, passed away peacefully, at Princess Margaret Hospital, on October 28, 2023, surrounded by his family, after a battle with cancer. Born in Toronto to the late Senator David James Walker and Elizabeth Joyce Walker. Much loved husband for 59 years of Eleanor and proud father of David Jr. and Hugh (deceased). Cherished father-in-law to Shelly and dear grandfather to Samuel, Benjamin and Madeleine. Fun-loving brother-in-law and uncle many times over. Predeceased by his beloved sisters, Joyce McKeough and Diane Walters. David was a man of determination and big goals. He achieved the pinnacle of his profession, Five-Star Master Builder, at Manulife Financial. As well, he summited some of the world's most notable mountains, including the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Kilimanjaro and Mount Rainer. He was equally determined to help others, individually and through service to his church and schools. He created several scholarships and endowments at institutions close to his heart: Upper Canada College, University of Western Ontario, Branksome Hall, and Beausoleil First Nation on Christian Island. Famously, David was recognized by Upper Canada College with the John D. Stevenson Award for connecting with over one thousand alumni individually on fundraising calls. Above all, family life centered greatly on the cottage David and Eleanor built on Georgian Bay, from which they skied at Craigleith, as well as enjoyed countless fun holidays and adventures with their children and grandchildren. In addition, David also loved horseback riding in Arizona and the Rockies, including many week-long trail rides with his Manulife pals. David knew how to connect with people from all walks of life, something he first learned campaigning in Regent Park for his father in the federal election of 1953. He took a genuine interest in each person he met, drawing them out, affirming them, providing advice and encouragement, and finding something to joke about. We have been blessed by his life and work. His funeral will be held at Metropolitan United Church, 56 Queen Street East, Toronto, at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, November 6th. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Livestreaming of the service can be found on the funeral home website, where condolences can be posted., at www.humphreymiles.com Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles - Newbigging Chapel 416-487-4523