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John Walker Obituary
Dr. John Michael Walker, M.D. passed suddenly at age 53 on Wednesday, December 24, 2014. Dr. Johnny Walker was a loving husband, doting father and caring son and brother. He was an amazing physician and healer to many. He is survived by his wife Leah and daughter Ellie Sky of Scottsdale, AZ, his mother Jackie Walker, sister Susan Walker (husband John and children Lydia and Petra) of Grand Junction, CO. Dr. Johnny Walker was born in Atlanta, GA on January 25, 1961 to Bob and Jackie Walker. He graduated from The Lovett School in Atlanta in 1979 and then graduated with a Bachelor of Science Cell Biology from Georgia State University in 1985. Dr. Walker graduated from Ross University School of Medicine with a degree of Doctorate of Medicine in 2003. He continued his post-graduate education at Maricopa Medical Hospital in Phoenix where he earned his Board Certification in Internal Medicine. He practiced medicine at Scottsdale Healthcare and his private practice The Walker Clinic of Health and Wellness. His kindness, friendship, loyalty and giving will continue to reflect in the lives he touched. His infectious enthusiasm for life was contagious and enriched each person who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was an adventurous man who explored every road and trail. His true love for nature was found through his avid mountain biking, hiking and boating. He was a champion mentor to both his medical students and colleagues. His research and teachings of obese related illnesses will change the future of medicine. A Celebration of The Life of Johnny Walker will be held on Friday, January 16, 6:30pm at
The Scottsdale Bible Church located at 7601 East Shea Blvd. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome for Ellie Sky's education fund at any BBVA Compass bank under Ellie Sky Walker, account ending in 1346.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Walker
Sponsored by His loving wife Leah and beautiful daughter Ellie.
Cindy Toman
December 10, 2024
Still missing you Dr. WALKER and thinking of you in Heaven every Christmas. I know you are watching over your sweet family and having the most glorious Christmas with Jesus. You helped and were kind to everyone ypu met in this life and are never forgotten and remain with us always Cindy Toman Scottsdale Healthcare Osborne EVS 2015
Celia Lawrence
December 31, 2020
He was My doctor during a catastrophic MRSA infection I had in 2011. I was in the hosp for over a month. He was THE BEST doctor ever. He always made me laugh. He was just awesome.
It is now 2020..new years eve and i googled his name and was so saddened to hear that he passed away. There are many people from that hosp stay that were awesome, but he was one I will never, ever forget.
You have my sincerest sympathy.
Anthony
February 23, 2016
Saw Dr. Walker once for a pre-op appt. Wanted to see him again for another issue. Just learned today of his passing. He passed roughly one month after I first saw him. He was a really "cool" doc and person. One of a kind.
Ellie Sky Walker Christmas 2015
December 15, 2015
Ellie Sky Walker
Leah Walker
July 23, 2015
Janet Camp
July 14, 2015
Dr Walker was so very special. He took care of me a few times at Scottsdale Osborn . He was caring, great Doctor and a wonderful man. He will be missed. RIP Dr Walker
A Singh , MD
June 23, 2015
"It is never a goodbye, but a see you later".
I will take with me all that you have taught me.
People like Dr Walker are sent to earth to help lighten our lives...make us smile..shower their happiness. It was a honor to be taught by Dr Walker, ever few months I visit this page... Just never got the courage to write something...but then i taught today...if I was Dr Walker...there would be no hesitation at all! He continues to encourage and guide us.
Thank you for blessing our lives Dr Walker. Rest In Peace.
Anthony Saviri MD
June 3, 2015
RIP Johnny Walker....A man who was as smoothe as the drink he was named after...God bless to the family.
Mark Bishara, MD
June 2, 2015
I don't even know where to begin, John was one of, no- he was the most influential person on my career decision.
We used to stay up late at night and order pizzas and study. We would get up early and go to breakfast at VIPS in Guadalajara together.
He was the all-time quarterback for our football team and although he was a Denver fan I respected him from top to bottom. He had a story for every life experience you can imagine. From working in Aspen in Snowmass to He was the all-time quarterback for our football team and although he was a Denver fan I respected him from top to bottom. He had a story for every life experience you can imagine. From working in Aspen and Snowmass in restaurants and his interaction with Snoop Dogg. This man is someone who I truly loved as a cherished friend. He counseled me early on to go into some other specialty other than surgery. We studied on the chairlifts skiing in western Colorado for a licensing exams. A couple of years ago I googled him after not seeing him since medical school and I knew he went to Arizona. I lost track of him when I went to Boston for surgery in the plastic surgery but I always credited him for the inspiration to get through the hard times.
To his family, you have a home here in Dallas Texas should you ever find your way here please find me. 1917 Manor Way Dr., Mansfield, TX 76063. 469-644-2284
Lynette W.
May 28, 2015
I can't believe this understanding, caring, vital and humorous man has left us. He injected such a bright note of optimism into my life when I was still recovering my ability to speak and write. He was more like a friend and counselor, than a physician, but his was a presence and character that commanded admiration and respect. May Leah and little Ellie Sky be blessed by his memory and the knowledge of his positive impact on so many lives. We can look forward to seeing him again, in that Place prepared for him and for us who believe.
Johnny Walker and John DiPeri
John DiPeri
May 15, 2015
I cant believe what I read on the post card today. Dr Walker was an amazing person and doctor. He changed my life. A few weeks before I was to go into a back operation he put me on a diet and with in weeks my back was getting better. He coached me and encourage me until my back was 100% better with out surgery. I have gone on to run a marathon a year later at the age of 55. Dr. Walker spent so much time with me explaining how sugar effects a body and shared many medical papers on his passion and research. I would brag about Dr Walker when my friends asked me how I went from massive pain to running a marathon. I turned one of my friend on to Dr Walkers teachings and he has lost 70 pounds and his back has stopped hurting and he is teaching spinning classes at the gym. Dr. Walker loved helping people and he was an inspration to many people. I guess god needed him in heaven to help him.
Cynthia Siedow
May 13, 2015
I just heard of the passing of Dr. Walker, I am so saddened. While a patient in the Scottsdale Osborne Hospital Dr Walker was my attending. He was kind, attentive, compassionate, and had a wit and bed manor about him that was truly rare. He will be missed!
My sympathies go out to his Family and God Bless Them~
Deb D
May 5, 2015
This message is coming so long after his passing, but his loss is still keenly felt. He was my consulting doctor for my knee replacement surgery, and he visited me more than anyone else while I was in the hospital. When I saw him in his office, he was kind and made you feel that he had all the time in the world for you. A remarkable man....Condolences to the family
Lynda Hall
May 5, 2015
I am deeply saddened as I have just become aware of Dr. Johnny Walker's passing... I was a trauma patient fortunate to have had him as my attending physician at Scottsdale Healthcare Hospital, he was the warmest, caring physician I have ever had... My sympathies go out to his family for such a tragic loss! There is a very special place for him in Heaven!
Darcy
May 5, 2015
We just received a card in the mail re Dr. Walker's sudden passing. We had the pleasure of his care while my husband was recovering from spinal fusion surgery. Instant rapport, you could tell he truly cared and wanted the best for his patients.
Loved hearing his boots coming down the hall...walk on Dr. walker, walk on.
Connie Quarles Wonham
May 4, 2015
I am a classmate of John's from Lovett. What a handsome and cool guy he was - way out of my league in 1979. I am so sorry to hear of his death but am inspired by the impactful life he led. Jackie, you were wonderful too and part of all of our growing up. It sounds as if John had a wonderful life and family which must be an enormous comfort.
Adrienne Lahr
May 4, 2015
Leah, I'm in shock. Speechless and so sorry to hear this. Your heart must be so heavy. I remember the day he spoke of this women who captured his heart and how in love he was...like a kid with a crush. A great light has gone but his infectious smile and vibrancy lives on. If you need anything just ask!
Mikele Jennings
May 1, 2015
I was so shocked to learn of Dr. Walker's passing. As his patient I can say he was a kind and friendly man who made his patients feel comfortable. I know he will be missed by all those whose lives he touched.
My deepest sympathy to his entire family.
Mikele Jennings
Scott Swanson
March 11, 2015
Johnny walker was an excellent friend and great person with endless compassion for his patients and showed genuine interest in others. He will be greatly missed. He definitely had a zest for life and his zest was infectious.
Brian Weaver
March 9, 2015
I am so sorry to hear the news. He was a great man and will be missed.
Jerry Clagg
February 25, 2015
Leah, My heart aches for your loss, there are no words that can make Johnny's passing any easier. Just know he was loved and admired by many, me being one of them. I spoke about Johnny on many occasions, he leaves such a strong mark on many of us who were blessed to know him.
S
January 31, 2015
Dr. Walker was truly one of the most extraordinary human beings and clinicians I ever knew.
Sherry Woodley
January 27, 2015
The news of Dr. Walker's passing is still so shocking. I met him as a patient at Scottsdale Healthcare in November when I was hospitalized, and I felt so lucky to have been assigned such a friendly and caring doctor. I had hoped to switch doctors in the new year as our insurance changed, and I am sorry that I won't be able to work with this outstanding and wonderful doctor. His visits were frequent and he always had something clever to say, but he also clearly knew his stuff. He was kind, encouraging, and knowledgeable. I am so very sorry for his family's loss.
Maxine Stamey
January 27, 2015
Dr. Walker will be missed by many, including myself. I am a nurse who had the pleasure of working with him for a few years down at Osborn. He was always willing to stop what he was doing to answer questions. He was great to work with, and I learned much from him. RIP, Dr. Walker.
January 23, 2015
I will always remember Johnny fondly for teaching me the value of enjoying the moment even during the most trying of times. RIP my friend
Asligul Cakmak Hendershot, MD
S.
January 21, 2015
I had the pleasure of working with him. He was a smart doctor, always looked cool and was very approachable. He was nice to his patients and his nurses. Just an overall great man. What a sad tragedy and still sad by it all. My heart and prayers go out to his family.
Melanie Zimmer
January 21, 2015
I am still shocked and saddened by Dr. Walker's sudden passing. I was introduced to Dr. Walker when he came to visit me while I was in Scottsdale Heathcare seeing Dr. Renzo Cataldo who suggested Dr. Walker meet with me. I was thrilled that Dr. Walker saw me as a patient through out 2014. Dr. Walker was the best Internal Medicine Doctor I have ever had. He was caring, a great teacher, funny, intelligent and the list goes on. You will be missed by all. My thoughts and prayers goes out to his wife Leah, daughter Ellie and family.
Tom Pagano
January 20, 2015
I only met him twice, as a trauma patient in the hospital. He was one of those remarkable people who you meet and instantly like. You feel like you've known him as a friend for a long time. I am truly sorry to hear of his passing. My deepest sympathy to all who were close to him.
Gary Weiner
January 18, 2015
Johnny was a good man. His persona came from his heart. He was authentic and he had integrity. I will certainly miss him, as I know all those who he touched with his life will too.
Pamela LeBey
January 18, 2015
I will always have a special place in my heart for John, my first true love all the way back in 1978. He was a special person- loving, funny, kind. A beautiful guy inside and out. I was so happy to hear of his great success as a doctor and happiness he found with Leah and their beautiful daughter Ellie. I am so very saddened by this terrible tragedy. All who knew him were so very lucky. RIP John Walker.
Tara Pesch
January 16, 2015
I used to work with Johnny, at County hospital back in 2004 2005, The first time I met Johnny he came up to me and introduced himself as Dr. Johnny Walker Black label or red. Had such a great sense of humor and a infectious smile. My condolences go out to his wife Leah and daughter Ellie. Rest in peace Johnny! Your job here now is done. Ride on........
sonja
January 16, 2015
Dr. Walker will be missed. My deepest sympathy And prayers go out to his wife and daughter. Dr. Walker a wonderful person and a great doctor and just a spotlight of life.
Steve & Rhonda Denny
January 15, 2015
We first met Johnny over a decade ago when he was living in our neighborhood and would cruise by on his motorcycle.
We renewed our friendship over the past year when we sought his help and expertise to guide us through several health issues. His calm but thorough explanations were part of his unique style and charm. Little did we know that he would also impart the understanding that would help us to lose over 75 pounds between the two of us and no doubt countless others.
He truly changed our lives and we will continue to share the story of this remarkable doctor.
Our heart goes out to Leah and Ellie in this difficult time.
Judy Schumacher
January 14, 2015
Dr. Walker was an amazing physician and wonderful patient advocate. My husband had a very serious bicycle accident and Johnny's expertise, guidance and encouragement got us through an 18- month journey that went from devastating disability to full recovery. Together, he and Leah made a powerful force for healing and goodness. Our hearts are breaking for her and their little girl. The world has lost an incredible person.
January 14, 2015
Johnny was an amazing physician and fantastic patient advocate. My husband had a very serious bicycle accident and without Dr. Walker's
Allan Rosenthal
January 13, 2015
He was a great, caring doctor, that I will never forget. I am so saddened to hear of his passing. My heart goes out to his family.
Regards.
Allan Rosenthal
Dale Shephard
January 13, 2015
I am shocked and saddened to hear this news. I met Dr. Walker after a spinal fusion that Dr. Wanabo did for me. He was a fine doctor and will be missed.
Cathy Meinerts
January 13, 2015
I once had the pleasure of working with Dr. Walker. He was a wonderful, knowledgable, kind hearted physician. He always took the time to listen to his patients, and nurses that cared for them. Thank you for being an angel of medicine. Now you have been called home to be an angel of heaven.
Charan Khurana
January 12, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Karen W
January 12, 2015
Sending my deepest condolences to the Walker family. I spent two weeks in the hospital after a serious hiking accident. Dr. Walker not only took excellent care of me while I recovered but was compassionate, understanding and offered encouragement throughout my stay. He was one of a kind, and I know he will be truly missed.
Mike and Shannon Durham
January 11, 2015
Dr. Walker was so kind and so thorough when our young friend was sick. Our sympathies to his family and co-workers.
Mike Cassidy
January 10, 2015
What a shock to our hiking group to learn about Dr Walker.
We only met him once once but he left a very positive impression.
On Jan 4, 2003, a member of our group shattered her ankle on Siphon Draw hiking trail in the Superstition Mountains.
Dr Walker and his wife stayed with her for 3 hours while she was moved down the trail where a helicopter could reach her.
He kept her from entering shock.
You not only helped this hiker and her broken ankle but also those of us with her that would not
have known what to do and felt helpless.
It was good to see such acts of kindness and giving from both of you in a
period of time where people's priority are their selves.
I am also very impressed with those that live life as his Obituary summarized.
I looked up to Dr. Walker as a real-life super hero and the world will miss him.
Susan S.
January 9, 2015
My deepest sympathies. I worked with Dr. Walker at the same hospital for many years. He always had a kind word and a smile. When my father was in the ICU, he was so concerned and comforting. He was one of the rare special doctors so hard to find.
Candace Rickson
January 9, 2015
Leah,
Such heartbreaking news about such a good man. You and your little
girl and his family are in my thoughts. Candace (Candy) Rickson (former HUC 5E)
Gary LaCroix
January 9, 2015
I have been blessed to know Johnny and his beautiful wife Leah since my days at the Herb Box restaurant. They began as my customers, and they fast became my friends. I am absolutely heartbroken for you, Leah. God Bless. Gary.
Vickie Walker
January 9, 2015
My heart is broken over your loss. After reading the condolences I realize that he was a truly remarkable man and dr. I'm sorry I only knew him as a child and young man. I pray that God will hold each of you close and give you comfort.
Cheri Hanson
January 9, 2015
Dr. Johnny Walker and Leah were instrumental in the health of my father Victor Harrel 4 years ago. Dr. Walker was the only Dr. my father enjoyed visiting in his 81 years of life. May God bless the Walker family during this tough time, but remember that God has more plans for him now.
January 8, 2015
Our deepest sympathy to Dr. Walker's family. My husband and I had the pleasure of having him as my husband's Dr.at Osborn Scottsdale hospital during his 7 week stay and he was someone you looked forward to seeing each day...he made you feel so special and would go out of his way to make you feel comfortable through his words and deeds and always with a smile and a handshake. Thank you to such a wonderful man and Doctor of humanity. You will truly be missed. Paul & Breta Dettor, Pine, AZ
susan riggs
January 8, 2015
Dr Walker was a very fine physician and will be greatly missed. My sympathies to his wife, daughter, sister and mother. I had the priviledge of meeting Dr Walker.
Maggie Black
January 8, 2015
Leah, my heart breaks for you. Please know that you and little Ellie are in my prayers. I cannot imagine a world without "Walker" in it. He was an exceptionally caring doctor and made all of us he treated feel like we were part of his family. You are profoundly missed, Dr. Johnny Walker.
January 8, 2015
My Blessings reach out to the Walker family ! He always had a smile to share & compassion to give to his patients ! Rhonda M - Scottsdale Az
Kathy S.
January 7, 2015
Dr. Walker always made you feel like you were his best friend. It is very difficult to understand why . A great doctor - will miss him at SHC .Continued thoughts and prayers for his family
January 7, 2015
Our deepest sympathies to Leah and Ellie, Jackie and Susan & John, Petra and Lydia. We send our heartfelt prayers for you all. Pastor Barbara Johnson, American Lutheran, Grand Junction, CO
Paul Prichard
January 6, 2015
I was saddened to hear of his passing. My prayers are with the entire family(ies). May God hold each of you in the hollow of His almighty hand and bless you always in ALL ways. I will never forget the day that I met him. He always was a source of encouragement from the very first day we met till just recently, the day my wife's total knee replacement surgery this year. You will definitely be missed but not forgotten!!!
Mary Coffou
January 6, 2015
I am still in shock after reading the newspaper today! I knew Dr. Walker when he was a resident, and then had the pleasure of being his patient Scottsdlae Healthcare while having 3 cervical fusions by Dr.Marciano. He always put a smile on my face. Sending prayers to his family.....
Miles Nelson
January 6, 2015
My wife and I are both shocked and saddened by your sudden passing. You were a fantastic doctor as well as a wonderful man and friend. You literally saved my life a year ago and I will always be grateful for the personal care and treatment you provided me with during the past year. We love you and will miss you dearly.
Terri Culley
January 6, 2015
My Dad has been in and out of Scottsdale Healthcare several times over the last two years..Our family always felt good and confident when he was under Dr. Walker's excellent, compassionate care. We are so saddened and keeping his family in our thoughts and prayers.
January 6, 2015
We were saddened to hear of the Loss
of John here in CT. Our condolances
to the Walker family.
All our Love The John Parmelee family
Tom McGill
January 6, 2015
Dr. Johnny Walker was a great Doctor he helped me through a difficult surgery and was a pleasure to know! RIP Johnny Walker.
Tom Janssen
January 6, 2015
Dr Walker was breath of fresh air when I needed it most. His personality so full of energy, he filled the room with joy, comic relief,as well as complete compassion all at the same time. We lost an All Star.
Tom Janssen. Phoenix AZ.
Sonia Kulyk, RN.
January 6, 2015
I'm so sorry this happened to you Dr. Walker. I had the pleasure to work with you on telemetry. You were so smart, so funny, and so caring.. Your patients loved you. I will continue to pray for your wife, daughter, and family.
Ana Wedwick
January 6, 2015
It was a pleasure knowing Dr. Walker. He made me feel at ease and understand so much. He helped me improve my health. This is a person that you'd want others to meet, along with his staff. My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. He will be missed greatly.
January 6, 2015
I had the honor and pleasure to work with Dr. Walker at MIHS during his residency there. He was compassionate, smart and an excellent doctor. In 2008, he was my husband's physician at Scottsdale Osbourne and his sense of humor and total commitment helped us cope during a difficult time.
Truly one of the nicest guys I've ever met. The world lost a
remarkable human being with his passing. My condolences to his family during this time.
Kathe Whalen
Margo and Bill Boden
January 6, 2015
What a wonderful person John was to so many! My husband Bill, and I went to Lovett with him. I had his sweet and wonderful mother, Mrs. Walker, as my religion teacher. My heart breaks for the family and we know he will be greatly missed. Much love and many prayers of comfort. Love, Margo and Bill Boden
January 6, 2015
Very caring man who not only gave my daughter(Ashley)a job but also made her feel like a part of his family !!!
My prayers go out to Leah and Ellie
Michael Littlejohn
D. Joss
January 6, 2015
Dr. Walker you are missed, Thank you for giving of yourself.
Donna Davis
January 6, 2015
So sorry to hear the news of Dr. Walker's passing. He was such a lovely person and his wife Leah whom I met this past year. Assisted with my surgery and he was such a nice, positive and calming force. A truly unique person with his boots and jeans and warm personality. Prayers to Leah and Ellie and his family.
Michele Janko
January 6, 2015
Thinking of John will always bring a smile and laughter to me. He was a person who had the capability to do anything he wanted, and filled you with his dry wit while doing it. Such a light and such a loss. Thinking of you all.
Barb Pela
January 6, 2015
Both my parents were in and out of the hospital during the last couple of years and Dr. Walker was their doctor several times. We were always glad to see him - he was very caring and concerned about them. So sorry for your loss.
Joy Starrick
January 6, 2015
One of the most caring people I have ever met towards others and his patients. He will be missed by so many.
January 6, 2015
leah and family my hearfelt sorrow for you all dr walker will be missed thinking of you often love tracey samuelson 5east
Jeff Mazzarella
January 6, 2015
My heartfelt condolences to your family in this time of bereavement.
Rose Knight
January 6, 2015
Dr Walker was a great physician, and teacher. He always explained medical things that the average person could understand. Had a lot of energy. God bless his family. We are praying.
Jennifer Crigler
January 6, 2015
The first time I met Dr. Walker, I thought to myself that his personality and his caring for his patients was as smooth as his name. Dr. Walker was a wonderful doctor, and will be truly missed. Our Heavenly Father called home one of his best angels. My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, colleagues and other patients.
The Crigler Family
Gordon Keith
January 5, 2015
God bless you and your family during this time of sorrow. RIP Dr. Walker
Kristin Babb
January 5, 2015
My deepest condolences to the family of this wonderful man. Dr Walker had a remarkable ability to make everyone around him feel included and important. His passing is an enormous loss to the medical community. Rest in peace Dr Walker.
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