Brian Hunter Walker

Brian Hunter Walker, born August 21, 1953, in Vernal, Utah to Leland and Elaine Martin Walker passed away unexpectedly on Friday, June 27, 2025, from a heart attack at home in Cottonwood Heights, Utah.
Brian moved to Scottsdale, Arizona at the young age of 5, solidifying his love for Native American culture. As an adult he explored the American Southwest, frequently stopping at roadside stands to buy jewelry or a new display piece to adorn the house. He participated in Little League in 1966, often recounting the story of catching the game winning ball only to have the ball break through his leather mitt. He learned how to play guitar at age 12, opening his world to playing the music he loved, the Blues. He also achieved a double brown belt in karate.
His passions included spending time with his girlfriend, playing guitar, music, movies, camping, hiking, skiing, riding motorcycles,
connecting with others, quoting movies, and making jokes with his unparalleled comedic timing. Brian enjoyed a good laugh above all else. His laugh will be missed the most.
Brian graduated from Scottsdale High School in 1971. After attending Scottsdale Community College, he served a mission in California for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He continued his education at Arizona State University for his Bachelor's in Criminal Justice and finally at Brigham Young University for a Master's in Counseling graduating in 1981. When at BYU, he met Chandra Van Corler. They married in 1981 and were later divorced.
Brian enjoyed his occupation as a School Counselor at Crescent View middle school from 1989-2001. In the evenings, he taught as a professor at the University of Phoenix from 1992-2001 helping others achieve their career goals. Brian is given credit as one of the original authors of the Utah Comprehensive Counseling and Guidance Model.
In 1991, Brian experienced an accidental 80-foot fall while hiking in Southern Utah BLM land, resulting in addiction to pain medications. After suffering for many years, Brian was able to overcome his addiction and was proudly sober for over 24 years.
He gained employment at Snowbird Resort in July 2002 where he thrived in the fresh air, powdered snow, and the music. He worked as an Audio Video Technician where his life-long passion for music was fulfilled by working the Summer concert series, Oktoberfest, and other events.
He is preceded in death by his parents Leland Elwin Walker and Elaine Martin Walker. He is survived by sisters Annalee (Charles "Chuck") Bohon, Stephanie Walker, and Melissa Trom, as well as his long-time loving companion of 20 years Carmen Flores. His legacy includes his two children Jan (Eric) Lauritzen and Jill (Elmer) Portillo and grandchild Matilda Portillo.
A Celebration of Life event will be announced later this month. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to a charity of your choice.