John Edward Walker

John Edward Walker passed away unexpectedly on November 27, 2005 at his home in Phoenix at the age of  74. John was born and raised in Willoughby, Ohio and he graduated from Albion College in central Michigan in 1954.  He received his Masters degree from Michigan State University in 1966, and he was awarded his Doctorate in Education from Utah State University in 1970. Sports were a big part of John's life.  He was a three sport athlete in high school and he was proud of his induction into his high school's Hall of Fame in 2004.  He also played football in college and was a middleweight Golden Gloves boxing champion in the early 1950's.  John also was an avid golfer, as well as an enthusiastic outdoorsman. John was active in the field of education during his professional life; he worked as a teacher, served as the principal of an elementary school, and retired as a professor from the Education department at Arizona State University.  His passion for education was reflected in his strong belief in the Community School concept, which turned schools into neighborhood hubs that were accessible to everyone for a wide variety of purposes. He was well known for his generosity of spirit and his kindness to all, no matter their place in the world.  John worked on numerous charitable projects through a ministry at his church and was a man of great faith. He was a devoted, loving husband, and a marvelous father and role model for his children and others associated with his remarkable life. John is survived by his wife of 50 years, Suzanne Walker, his sister, Jeanne Lenz, his son Robert Walker and his wife Lynn, his son Andrew Walker and his wife Joan, and his daughter Amy Gosla and her husband Richard.  He is also survived by his six grandchildren: Scott and Lauren Walker, Alison and Victoria Walker, and Ross and Rebecca Gosla. A memorial service is scheduled for December 10, 2006 at 10:00AM and it will be held at Dayspring United Methodist Church, 1365 E. Elliot Rd., Tempe, Arizona, 85284. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Central Arizona Region. Arrangements by Bueler Mortuary.