Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Randy Walker Obituary
Mike Wolf, Northwestern's assistant athletic director for media services, said Walker died suddenly at about 10 p.m. Thursday after experiencing chest pains at his suburban Chicago home.
"This is a devastating loss, not only for our athletic program, but for the entire Northwestern community," Northwestern Director of Athletics Mark Murphy said in a statement released by the school. "Randy truly embraced Northwestern and its mission, and cared deeply for his student-athletes, both on and off the field."
Two months ago, Northwestern gave Walker a four-year extension through the 2011 season. He joined the school in 1999 after nine years at Miami of Ohio.
Walker's Wildcats posted 37 wins, going 7-5 last season. He led the team to three bowl games since 2000, including a 50-38 loss to UCLA in Sun Bowl in December.
Northwestern shared the Big Ten title in 2000. Walker was the first Wildcats coach to guide the team to four seasons with at least six wins since C.M. Hollister in 1899-1902.
In October 2004, Walker checked himself into a hospital after experiencing chest pains before his weekly football season news conference. He was hospitalized with an inflammation of the heart muscle, known as myocarditis, that usually is caused by a virus.
Walker is survived by his wife, Tammy, and two children.
Copyright © 2006 The Associated Press
305 Entries
Gail Bowen
October 9, 2020
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
constantine drugas
November 14, 2016
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Thomas Gesella
November 8, 2008
Hi!
I hope, you are Sandy Ziesak where I such.
Your father was Otto Ziesak.A german Man.
Then is right,my e-mailadress is [email protected]
See you the next time. Thomas
EDDIE
August 31, 2006
I met him only a few times but he left a solid impression. I will be thinking about him tonight as Miami tackles NW.
How you can show support
Jay Ward
July 11, 2006
I will miss Coach Walker greatly. he provided us all with some of the best moments of college. My prayers go out to his family
Mike Percie
July 10, 2006
My deepest sympathies to the Walker family on the death of Coach Randy Walker. His all too early death, saddens us all.
Coach Walker always had a kind word for me when I spoke to him. Any football related question I had for him, was always quickly answered, no matter how busy he was.
His legacy will be carried on by the young men that he coached and mentored at Miami of Ohio University and Northwestern University.
JANET SMITH
July 10, 2006
I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. MY DAUGHETR ATTENED NU THE LAST 4 YEARS ON THE DANCE TEAM, SHARING THE FIELD WITH HIM AND HIS TEAM, JENNI SMITH, AND HAS MUCH RESPECT FOR THE COACH AND THE TEAM. MY FATHER PASSED APRIL 25 OF THIS YEAR, AND JENNI HAD TO COME FORM NU TO CA TO HELP WITH MY MOM AND DAD. WE WERE TALKING OVER SEVERAL DINNERS TOGETHER ABOUT WHAT YOU ARE ALL GOING THROUGH....WE ARE JUST A FEW WEEKS AHEAD OF ALL OF YOU IN THE GRIEVEING PROCESS AND IT IS SO DIFFICULT, SAD, EMOTIONAL...SO MANY QUESTIONS, SO MANY FEELINGS, SO MUCH SADNESS....KNOW THAT OUR THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU AND WE ARE SO VERY SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF THE COACH-
WHO IS ALSO FRIEND, HUSBAND, AND FATHER TO YOUR FAMILY.....I HOPE THAT IN THE NEAR FUTURE YOU ALL FIND SOME COMFORT AND PEACE IN YOUR HEARTS....BUT UNTIL THAT TIME, KNOW THAT WE THINK OF YOU ...JAN
Alva Gillis
July 10, 2006
Friend of Randy's father, and father-in-law and impressed by his successes
Cathy Keehan
July 9, 2006
I was shocked to hear of Randy's death. I went to Troy High School and graduated with him in 1972. Some of my fondest memories were watching him play football and being a part of our undefeated season. I am proud to say I went to school with Randy, who went on to be not only a successful football player and coach but a great role model and inspiration to young athletes. He will be greatly missed but his memory will live on. My condolences to the Walker family.
Chad O'Reilly
July 9, 2006
Dear Mrs. Walker, Abbey and Jamie, I am so sorry for your loss. I played for your husband and father at Miami from 95-98. Coach Walker impacted my life greatly. Football is the best metaphor for life and I try to embody the messages Coach Walker impressed upon me in every aspect of my life. I am a better person for knowing him and I will always remember the lessons he exemplified. Please know this, Coach Walker's legacy will live on. Thousands of young men have benefitted from his influence and "tough love." Specifically, I remember his talks on responding to adversity, paying attention to detail and in finishing the task at hand. Every message he delivered not only made us better football players but better men as well. I will honor Coach Walker's life by embodying his teachings and life lessons. He impacted so many of us. Just one simple example.. After I graduated from Miami, I began using Coach Walker's signature line when asked "how are you doing".. "I'm doin' great, how you doin'?" He was always "doin' great!" And why wouldn't he be? After coaching us, he got to go home to you all. Mrs. Walker, Abbey and Jamie thanks so much for lending us your husband and father all these years. God Bless You All,
Chad O'Reilly, Miami 95-98
July 8, 2006
Randy seemed like he was a greAT pERSON, i HOPE HIS Family will be strong
Joshua Perallon
July 7, 2006
To the Northwestern Universtiy Community: I just want to say that I'm deeply sadded by the loss of your head football coach, and my deepest sympathies go out to his family as well.
walter Randolph
July 7, 2006
just as a person and a loving human being my heart felt prayers go out for the whole walker family.may god bless and keep his loving hands around you.
Sandra O'Hara
July 7, 2006
As a Penn State football fan, I wish to express my sincere sympathy to Coach Walker's family and all of the people hurting because of his passing.
John Mlinarcik
July 7, 2006
My heartfelt condolences to the Walker family, and the Miami & Northwestern families on the sudden passing of Coach Walker. I always admired his coaching style and ability to have his teams' play "up" to the competition, often winning games that they were decided underdogs in. I will always remember Coach bringing continued respectability to the NU program. God bless you!!
ROBERT HAWES
July 7, 2006
What do we do coach, now that you are gone?
Redskins and Wildcats no longer hear your song.
We feel so empty, lost and alone.
Coach, what is your answer?
Where do we go now coach, we ask with a sigh,
You always strived to keep our spirits so high,
Life seems so empty without you by our side.
Coach, what is your answer?
You are in God’s hands and we miss you so much,
Gone are your game plans, your care and gentle touch
Where do we go now for advice, guidance and such.
Coach. What is your answer?
We have all the years of your friendship and fun.
You left great memories for us each and every one.
With our eye on the prize you taught us how to run..
Coach, I see your answer, It is your example.
Patrick Stack
July 7, 2006
My condolences to the family and to the team for losing such a great leader and father figure. I will never forget my time at NU during Coach Walker's first two seasons and the joy of the team's victories.
Brad Breese
July 6, 2006
Tammy and Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I have many fond memories of Randy......Troy and Miami football games, choir practice, geometry class and of course the ever famous performance of "Fiddler on the Roof". He was a person I have always looked up too and have admired, but most importantly someone whom I have always respected..."gone but never will be forgotten"
Sincerely,
Brad Breese
Troy High School-1973
Miami University-1978
July 6, 2006
Today, the Tribe weeps. Rest in peace Coach Walker.
Forever a Miami Redskin
Steve Fridley
July 6, 2006
My condolences to Randy Walker's family. While I never met Coach Walker personally, I was so proud to have him representing Northwestern University. I remember reading, on the day he was hired at NU, a comment from a former player of his at Miami University who said, "You will be proud of this man." He was right.
And I did have the opportunity to meet several parents of Northwestern players, who were so grateful for the sense of community built by Coach Walker and his assistant coaches. They were also grateful for the leadership that he provided and the influence he was having on their sons' lives. Randy Walker's legacy will go far beyond the football field, in the lives of his family and in the lives of the young men he mentored and led.
My thanks to him for all of these things and for how well he represented Northwestern.
cynthia and thomas laituri
July 6, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sherry McFall
July 6, 2006
I was stunned last Friday to hear of the death of a fine coach and human being who transformed NU football into something good and competitive, something to be proud of as an alumna. My husband (BSE 1978) and I have long been season ticket holders and have thoroughly enjoyed the ups and downs of the seasons, journeyed to San Antonio, Detroit and El Paso for bowl games to support the successes and efforts of a fine coach, staff and young athletes.
Coach Walker transformed NU football from a laughingstock in the NCAA to a serious contender, and from what I hear influenced his players in a lot more than football. For the latter, the greater credit and thanks.
The sorrow of his family and friends is shared by both of us. May God's strength give you aid at this sad, sad time.
Sherry (BSJ 1978) and Ken (BSE 1978, MM 1982)
DON MILLER
July 6, 2006
TO THE WALKER FAMILY-MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY FOR LOSING SUCH A GREAT PERSON. IT WAS A PLEASURE TO HAVE BEEN AROUND RANDY FOR THE MANY YEARS AS A PLAYER COACH AND FRIEND. GOD BLESS YOU IN THIS DIFFICULT TIME.
Michael Pollard
July 5, 2006
Despite never having the pleasure of meeting Randy Walker, it was easy to respect and admire him for the way he handled himself through life. His professional and ambassadorial manner both on and off the field was second to none. The Buckeye Nation, college football, and our country will miss you, Randy. May your family find peace in the character and spirit you have shared with all of us.
Johanna Cox
July 5, 2006
To the family of Coach Walker, I would like to express my deepest sympathy to you,but know that he is with God and truly a angel, he will be missed down here. But we'll see him again in heaven. God Bless you all.
george dietrich
July 5, 2006
You're kidding me...he cant be gone...He was one of the greatest tailbacks in OHHS history..when I was a senior in HS our football trainer took us to the Bengals camp in Wilmington..he had known Randy from Miami..Randy got us down onto the field and spent a few moments w/ us..then we got to meet some of the players..what a gentleman!!! As an OSU alum..I always rooted for Randy..it was easy..he coached just like he played!!!Godspeed Randy Walker!!!
Barbara Schweighardt
July 5, 2006
It is with great sadness the entire Schweighardt family extends their deepest sympathies to the Walker family. Mrs. Walker may the outpouring of love and admiration for your husband give you a sense of comfort in your grief. To Abbey and Jamie may you feel surrounded by the strength, character and love of your dad. Our throughts and prayers are with all of you.
Chris Mitchell
July 5, 2006
I was always proud of my years at Northwestern (1989-1992). The memories will always be with me.
Since graduation way back then, I have realized that Northwestern molded me in more ways than I can describe.
Your success at NU was a rallying point for alums across the country. It enabled us to share that pride in a way that fans of other programs understand. It wasn't until the Cats started seeing some success that I would see purple jerseys in sports bars.
But beyond the win/loss column, your program did something else for me. The success of the football program under your leadership proved that the little guy can beat the odds and compete with traditional football powers. I frequently use the 'Cats as an example to show my son that hard work and the right attitude can overcome anything.
Thanks for the memories!
Allan Long
July 5, 2006
Although I never met Randy, I felt like I knew him, being a season ticket holder. Randy has done a remarkable job at NU and his enthusiasm and motivational spirit will be difficult to replace. My thoughts and prayers go out to Randy and his family
Sam Soto
July 5, 2006
my deepest condolences go out to coach walker's family and everyone he has touched with his presence. i became a wildcat fan and a football fan in general when i came to NU this past fall and it was through coach walker's dedication to his team that made me love the game. he will surely be missed. my prayers go out to his wife, kids, and the nu athletic family.
Sean
July 4, 2006
Some of the finest memories from my first three years at NU took place in the student section at Ryan Field.
Thank you, Coach, for making those memories so special. You will be sorely missed.
Gregg Dalton
July 4, 2006
As a Wisconsin Badger fan, I was many times frustrated after contests with NU. Mr. Walker was a great coach. God bless Randy Walker.
Mike Bath
July 4, 2006
To The Walker Family, Northwestern Family, and everyone who was touched by him, I feel like I have made two trully important life altering decisions in my life. One was to ask my wife to marry me...the other was deciding to play at Miami for Coach Walker. I remember as if it was yesterday, Coach sitting in my living room on 320 E. Anthony Street in Celina, Ohio...telling me that he wanted me to be a Miami Man. There was something about him that made me believe in him and his program...probably the same thing that so many high school seniors saw, who ended up playing for him...his eyes looking right at you, his firm handshake, his excitement in talking about his program, and most importantly, his honesty in telling you that he wanted what was best for you...all of those reasons led me to Miami. Throughout the following three years, until he left for Northwestern, he had more of an impact on me than anyone else has ever had during my life. I catch myself now, being a coach, saying alot of the same things that he said to my teammates and I when we were his players. I find myself utilizing his lessons in my day to day life....I have talked to many teammates over the past few days, and that was the overlying message...he demanded you to be the best you could be and to do it the right way, which at times was tough for some, however, those who at the time didn´t like it, have realized over the past several years, it made us all better men! He had an unbelievable impact on our day to day lives...I am a better man today for having known Coach Walk...I will miss our notes back and forth and our chats on life and ball, but I feel so fortunate to have had the opportunity to know such a great man! My thoughts and prayers are with your family Tammy...
Thomas Maynard
July 4, 2006
As a former Michigan Wolverine, I keep up on Big Ten football. Coach Walker was a favorite of mine, as he kept his team very competitive over the years. It is never an easy job to maintain that edge in a great academic institution, but he managed it just fine.
cary & joan helms
July 4, 2006
"Coach", will be in our thoughs through these tough times and forever. The best football decision Randy ever made was to choose to become part of the NU family.
Brandon neer
July 4, 2006
i watch randy walker for 5 year ago and my pray out to his famliy
Eddie Fonner
July 4, 2006
To Mr. Walker's Family,
We wish you the best in this difficult time. Since I've been three or four years old, I've been a fan of Northwestern Football. As a student, I'm proud that Randy could be a part of this memory.
Vikas Desai
July 3, 2006
Coach Walker meant more to the university than football. His attitude and demeanor transcended off the field and led to greatness for the university. He will be surely missed and my deepest sympathies to his family at this time
(NU 2004)
Tom Vogel
July 3, 2006
I love Northwestern football. My family holds season tickets and watching every game of the year was great. I think Randy Walker was a awesome guy and a even better coach. I am deeply sorry about his sudden passing and hope everyone who loved and admired him get through this terrible time.
Richard Bruch
July 3, 2006
To the Walker family,
We are all poorer with the passing of Randy Walker and share in your grieving. He will be sorely missed by so many on several different levels. This guestbook is stirring testimony to the kind of man and the kind of coach that Randy Walker was. He lived life the right way and enriched those who had the good fortune of crossing paths with him. That is a great legacy and is something we can all endeavor to live up to in our own lives.
Randy, I am grateful that you coached my Wildcats for seven years and were such a great ambassador for Northwestern. Rest in peace, Coach Walk.
Richard Bruch
Class of 1993
Ming Pan
July 3, 2006
If football is a religion, Coach Walker is its best pastor. As an Evanston resident, Texas Longhorn fan, and somebody who has never watched a Wildcats game, I will attend a NU game this year in memory of Coach Walker...
Bob DeCarlo
July 3, 2006
July 3, 2006
I was shocked and sadden to wake up Friday morning to the news of Coach Walker's death. I am a Head Football Coach in Illinois and have had the opportunity to hear Coach Walker speak a number of times. As a coach I many times had questioned myself about am I doing the right thing for my players. That changed after I heard Coach Walker speak recently.As he spoke it seemed like he was talking to me although there were hundreds of coaches present. And I'm sure many other coaches felt the same way because of the honesty that came through in his presentation.He spoke of tough love because we are more than coaches to our players but are shapers of life.
I always told my players I will treat them as I do my own children -with tough love. And because of Coach Walker I won't ever doubt that again. My prayers go out to Coach Walker's family, coaches and players.
Bianca Maldonado
July 3, 2006
he best memories I have of my time at NU were brought to me by Coach's football teams, especially in 2000. As students, we were used to occupying the bottom rung of the football-mad Big 10, with a good season mixed into 2-3 terrible ones. But Coach changed all that - NU's consistent success and resiliency gave us students a great sense of pride in our university that cannot be put into words. Now as an alumnus, I can honestly say that Coach and his team are the core of the emotional connection I have with my alma mater. Talk to any alum from the 1999-2003 era and one of the first topics that comes up is Coach and how proud we are to have him as part of the NU family.
Thanks for everything Coach. You will be missed but never forgotten. Your spirit will live on in your family, friends and your players. And also in the hearts of a small gathering of loyal NU fans, every Saturday in the fall, on Manhattan's Upper West Side...God bless
Coach Eddie Nolan
July 3, 2006
God bless Coach Walker, and the family.The Coaching profession has lost a great Coach
M K
July 3, 2006
The best memories I have of my time at NU were brought to me by Coach's football teams, especially in 2000. As students, we were used to occupying the bottom rung of the football-mad Big 10, with a good season mixed into 2-3 terrible ones. But Coach changed all that - NU's consistent success and resiliency gave us students a great sense of pride in our university that cannot be put into words. Now as an alumnus, I can honestly say that Coach and his team are the core of the emotional connection I have with my alma mater. Talk to any alum from the 1999-2003 era and one of the first topics that comes up is Coach and how proud we are to have him as part of the NU family.
Thanks for everything Coach. You will be missed but never forgotten. Your spirit will live on in your family, friends and your players. And also in the hearts of a small gathering of loyal NU fans, every Saturday in the fall, on Manhattan's Upper West Side...God bless
Amy Meagher
July 3, 2006
I was shocked to hear about the tragic passing of Coach Walker. As a Miami alum and avid Redskin fan, I remember many wonderful Miami football Saturdays. Of course, the upset of Northwestern was one of our team's best football games ever under your guidance. Being friends with some football players, I also remember what an inspiration and role model Coach Walker was to his team. He will be missed!
Mike Dugan
July 3, 2006
Growing up in Indiana I was at an early age exposed to Big 10 Football.
Coach Walker at Northwestern was one of the best.
May the good Lord comfort the Walker family at this time.
John & Marge Glusak
July 3, 2006
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Sharon
July 3, 2006
Thank you Coach Walker for what you have done for the Northwestern community. So far in my 3 years at Northwestern, we have won many unexpected victories that I will never forget and hopefully we can get some more for you this season.
Richard Hose
July 2, 2006
Randy Walker was one of my all-time favorite coaches. His emphasis on fitness allowed his teams to compete at the highest levels, even when they weren't, perhaps, the most talented. No team in the country was more fit. Even though his teams were a thorn in alma mater Wisconsin's side, I had to admire Randy and his Northwestern teams. They played the game with style and class, and were fierce competitors. The Big Ten and all of college football will miss Randy. He personified what is best about college football.
Stanley & Rita Tibbs
July 2, 2006
May God be with you, during this time of grief. Our prayers go with you during the hard days ahead. May He keep you in the shadow of his wings, and you feel his presence during the hardest days.
Ron Jossendal
July 2, 2006
To the family of coach walker,My wife and I are so sorry for your loss.Randy was a great coach and a great man.Our prayers are with you.
Gary Layton
July 2, 2006
To The Walker Family,
I am struggling to put into words what Coach Walker meant to me as a player at Miami, but most importantly as a person and in my daily life. There hasn’t been a day since I graduated from Miami that I haven’t thought about Coach Walker and the lessons he taught me. I raise my kids and live my life using many of the same lessons and sayings that Coach Walker said and used with us. When I heard the devastating news, I felt like a part of me also passed away but I can assure you that part of Coach Walker will forever live in me, my wife, and my kids. I’m sure that anybody who has ever played with, played for, coached with, or simply knew Coach feels the same was as I. Coach Walker prepared me for life and I can never thank him enough for that. Tammy, Abbey, and Jamie – Thank you for sharing Coach Walker with the world. I will never forget him and my family’s thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Northwestern Cheerleaders
July 2, 2006
The Northwestern Cheerleaders would like to send their dearest sympathies to the Walker family. Coach Walker was a great coach and it showed on and off the field, his entusiasm for the game and the players was unmatched and he will be dearly missed by all. You will be in our thoughts and prayers
Robert Keenan
July 2, 2006
To the Walker family,
I am so thankful that my son was able to play for Coach Walker and learn from his dedication, passion and work ethic.
Andy Aracri
July 2, 2006
Coach Walker,
Thank you. Words can not express how much influence you have had on my life and the person/coach that I am today. You believed in me and many others throughout the years and guided us to achieve things in which we did not realize were possible. You will always live through the players lives you touched, and will never be forgotten...GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY!
Bill Edgington
July 2, 2006
As a fan of Penn State University, and Big Ten football, I'd like to extend my condolences to the family, friends, and fans of Randy Walker, and the Northwestern Wildcats. May God be with you during these emotional times.
Ralph Schneider (Miami '76)
July 2, 2006
Dear Tammy and family,
I’m so sorry. Coincidentally, I was reflecting on the fond memories I had at Miami University this past week when I received a phone call informing me that a dear friend, teammate and FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) cohort died.
Randy loved you so much and together you were a solid team. His love and devotion to his family was unsurpassed. He always wanted the best for you.
His parents instilled in him the person he became. Randy raised peoples’ vision for success. I will miss him but cherish those memories of friendship, Christian fellowship and athletic success. May God strengthen you through this difficult separation.
He loved God, you and football, which touched all of us. We are all better people because of Randy’s legacy.
Steve Morrison
July 2, 2006
I will be there August 31 when Miami and Northwestern play out Coach Walker's legacy and 30,000 fans will struggle with lumpy throats and watery eyes. Thanks, coach, for enriching my love of Miami football. I cursed the fact that Miami never won a title under you. But what you've left behind is far more valuable, and I'm shaken that it took this wrenching event for me to see it clearly. Be at peace.
Debra Anderson
July 1, 2006
To Tammy and the Walker Family,
I want to express my deepest condolences on the passing of Randy. Growing up in Troy and graduating in 1972 has left me with many memories. I will have to say that the 1971 and 1972 football seasons were the greatest! I have married a Purdue Boilermaker and of course followed the Big 10. We loved being able to watch Coach Walker. Now upon reading of his death today we are deeply sadden.
Tammy, may you and your family know that God is with you in this time of sorrow.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Debra (Hatfield)
and David Anderson
Tom Agne
July 1, 2006
A man of faith, the heart of a Champion, a true friend, a leader. So thankful that he called me his friend. My thoughts and prayers are with Tammy, Abbey, Jamie, Jim, Ruth, Rob, the entire Walker and Weikert families as well as the Wildcats and all the Redskins who loved him.
Jim Bendat
July 1, 2006
I never personally met Randy Walker, but I communicated with him many times, often thanking him for his leadership and values. He always took time to write me back, and one time he sent me a thank you card that I shall always cherish. He was a wonderful representative of Northwestern, and he made me proud to be an alum of our great university.
Debbie Goodpaster
July 1, 2006
My sincere condolences to Randy's family. I graduated with Randy from Troy High School and at that time he was a great person.
Friendly, kind, considerate and caring. He will be missed by many.
T. Herman Dooley
July 1, 2006
My condolences to Tammy and family.
I have followed Randy Walker in his career since he graduated from Troy High School, on to Miami of Ohio, on to North Carolina as a coach.He came back to Miami as
coach and produced
a great record. I was very proud of Randy.
Randy was one of my best students while I was Director of music at
Troy High School, Troy Ohio. He was
elected student Director of the Senior Choir his senior year.
The students knew of his leadership in those years. During his senior year in addition to being an outstanding Football player, He played the leading role, of "Tevia" in Fiddler on the Roof. He lived every moment of Tevia's
life.
Tammy was also an excellent student, having a role in the same Musical.
I was sadden by Randy's passing, but I am sure that you have many fond memories of your love for each other. He will be greatly missed by all.
T. Herman Dooley
Northwestern Ladycats
July 1, 2006
On behalf of the Northwestern Ladycats, we would like to share our condolances with all of those whose lives have been touched by Randy Walker. As members of Northwestern's athletic community, we have seen his impact on the football program, and we know that he will be missed by many.
David Holman
July 1, 2006
There are no words that I can think of to express my deep regrets for the loss of the Walker family. I hope that you can find peace with Coach Walker's passing. I hope that his future grandchild will grow-up knowing that his/her grandfather was a man worthy of respect.
I am a NU Alum and an avid NU Football fan. I appreciate all of the great moments that Coach Walker has brought to my autums the last 7 years. Additionally, the players that he recruited always represented NU well. I was proud to call them my team.
Judy Henwood
July 1, 2006
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Stu Vosler
July 1, 2006
My intersection in life with Randy occurred briefly on an evening at Miami Univ. in 1975 when he invited me to a Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting. I remember being struck by the consideration and interest he showed toward me -- this from someone who was truly a Big Man On Campus -- he seems even bigger to me today.
In many of life's past events so easily forgotten, this brief encounter is one of those indelibly good memories. See you on the other side Randy.
Bill and Becki Begley
July 1, 2006
Our most sincere condolences to the entire Walker family. Through the Troy Daily News and Troy High School, we got to know the Walker family and respect the integrity and caring attitude of the family.
Chris and Teddy Powers
July 1, 2006
Coach Walker, you were a personal hero of my dad and me. As huge Northwestern fans, we love the success you brought to the program. But we were most awed when we got to talk with you for a few minutes. Your concern and humor were inspiring. You have had an impact on the lives of people you hardly know, and for that we cannot thank you enough. Thank you for living life the right way. Please say hi to our greataunt/ aunt, Gwen Faulkner, who went to heaven the same day as you. We love you and send our deepest condolences to your family.
Margaret Eiland
July 1, 2006
Tammy,
It was a shock to read this morning of Randy's death. The people at Parkwood UMC have watched his career as he moved from UNC on to Northwestern, then to Miami and back to Northwestern. While we missed you and your family, we were proud of Randy and his career. Now we keep you and Abbey and Jamie in our prayers. May God watch over you and comfort you.
Kurt Minko (NU '90)
July 1, 2006
Tammy, our deepest sympathies are with you and your family. Coach taught me many things when I was a young man. Many of the same things I now and teach my kids. He had a great smile and attitude. The Minko’s will miss him. We pray for all of God’s Grace and Love for you all.
Scott Clemons
July 1, 2006
To the Walker family,
I was given the opportunity to be guided by a very prolific man, Randy Walker, after being recruited out of his home town of Troy Ohio and becoming a member of the Miami Redskins. He not only pushed you to your limits and beyond on the field, but off the field as well. Many guys may not have allowed themselves to know Coach Walker as a person, but because of a predicament I encountered I was approached by coach Walker to sit and talk. His concern was not what I could do to be a better player, but what I needed to do to learn and grow from the situation in which I encountered. What he had is called tough love and we all need that from time to time. Randy Walker touched so many lives and that will never be forgotten.
Thanks
June B
July 1, 2006
So very sorry for your loss.
Pat Mancuso
July 1, 2006
Coach Walker was a great man who had a profound and positive influence over the lives of thousands of young men. He never lost sight of the importance of academics and character. He will be missed. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Tom Lillge
July 1, 2006
As a Wisconsin Badger & Big Ten fan, my most heartfelt sympathy goes out to the Walker family, Northwestern University & their fans. The Big Ten family mourns your & "OUR" loss. God speed "Coach".
Mike Mahoney
July 1, 2006
I was lucky enough to work as one of the media coordinators for Northwestern football for two years under Randy, including the 2000 Big Ten championship and Alamo Bowl. Randy was a coach that clearly had the respect of his peers and his players, but I think beyond that he was a man whom everyone should emulate. He had his priorities in order -- he created a family environment, he had a tremendous combination of stern toughness and folksy humor, and everyone around that program was better for having him in their lives. I have been struggling mightily with this news. Why do bad things happen to great people? Tammy, Abbey and Jamie, my heart goes out to you. I wish you all the best during this incredibly difficult time.
Brian Johnson
July 1, 2006
While my first feelings of the sad news was shock, my best wishes and prayers go out to the Walker Family and especially Rob; my classmate at Troy. I was always so proud to say Randy graduated a year ahead of me at Troy when Northwestern was playing. God Bless the Walker Family.
Ryan Dietz
July 1, 2006
I always had the greatest respect for Coach Walker. As a member of the student media, he always treated me with respect and was excited to talk football with me. His legacy will extend beyond football. He will be remembered for the students he graduated, because with one of the highest graduation rates in Division I-A football is my equivalent of winning a national championship. We know you'll always be looking out for the Wildcats, coach.
Rob Shearer
July 1, 2006
My thoughts and prayers are with the Walker Family. A proven winner and a class act, Randy will truely be missed.
John o
July 1, 2006
Our deepest condolences to the Walker family and friends, and Miami and NU players and alums. Last night the Midwest prematurely lost one of its beloved sons, a humble and passionate teacher of men who consistently carried himself with class. It is truly sorrowful to consider the kids growing up who will never benefit from knowing Coach Walker or learning from his example; yet our enduring, worthy solace comes from knowing, so many already have. God Bless.
David A. Burgoyne
July 1, 2006
To The Family of Randy Walker:
Please be assured of my thoughts and prayers as you grieve for Randy.
Greg S. NU '89
July 1, 2006
When Gary Barnett left I foolishly thought that NU Football had been dealt its deepest blow. Coach Walker helped us move on and know that the 'Cats rise was only beginning. Thank you for your innovative style, your absolute faith in the Northwestern student-athelete and--in this world where hype so dominates sports--your focus on character, courage and faith. Rest in peace, Coach. Your legacy will live on in your family, your team and your faithful fans. Go 'Cats.
Old Leather Helmut Wildcat Follower
July 1, 2006
I feel terrible about Coach Walker. He had a direct impact on so many lives: all his players who were taught so much more than football; the students who were enriched by the school spirit he created with his football program; alumni who enjoyed following his very competitive teams; faculty throughout the Big Ten who took pride in the integrity of his student-athlete program; and other coaches throughout college football who saw that ingenuity, hard work, integrity, and the ability to coach young men are the only ingredients needed to produce a truly successful football program. His loss will be felt for years to come by those who mourn now and those who will never know how he might have touched their lives.
Jeff Murphy
July 1, 2006
I am a 1992 graduate from Northwestern. As a student, I experienced some lean years in the history of Northwestern football. After I left, the program took off under Gary Barnett and continued to flourish under the guidance of Randy. Beyond the excitement of seeing the purple dominate some of the Big Ten old guard, I was most impressed with the way Randy led the team. His players never failed to impress me when off the field. I was proud to have these young men represent Northwestern to the media and public. As I learned more about Randy, I realized that it was his strong moral compass influencing his players. He not only taught them the nuances of college football but also how to grow into thinking and caring adults.
I will miss Randy Walker greatly but his family will miss him far more, and I would like to extend my deepest condolences to them.
Sincerely,
Jeff Murphy
C. Earl
July 1, 2006
I happened to cover Coach Walker's teams at Northwestern, twice, after lopsided road losses. He could not have been more accomodating to the media.
I walked away very impressed with his ability to balance athletics and academics at two elite insitutions such as schools such as Miami U. and Northwestern.
I am saddened that the wonderful sport of college football has lost a thoughtful ambassador of the game and a family has lost a decent and honorable man far before his time.
Michael Weiser
July 1, 2006
As a Northwestern Football enthusiast, I respected and admired Randy's skills and efforts as a game day coach, something he didn't get enough credit for.
May the memories of Randy Walker bring happiness and peace.
Sean Lindo
July 1, 2006
In his always entertaining and enlightening press conferences, Coach Walker mentioned from time to time, how he was a hero-worshipper. When he was a kid, he said he often worshipped players and coaches alike. As a Northwestern grad, I'd have to say that Coach Walker was one of those heroes I worshipped. I'd send him an e-mail every now and then, and he responded to every single one of them, personally. He even sent me an autographed picture and hand-written note, which I display on my mantle with pride. I love Northwestern with all my heart, and one of the many things I admired about Coach Walker was how much he embraced Northwestern as much as he did his alma mater. And in time, he gave the Northwestern football program an identity all his own. Coach, I will miss you, and you'll always be a hero I worship.
Northwestern '02
Eric Harrington
July 1, 2006
I am grateful for Randy Walker's contributions to Northwestern and to its football program. I know Northwestern is very fortunate to have had him as a coach, even though his time there was cut short. My sincerest condolences and prayers go out to his family and friends, as well as the university community. Thank you, Coach Walker, for the memories; you will certainly be missed.
Cole Pederson
June 30, 2006
Since enrolling at Northwestern in the fall of 2000, Mr. Walker and the Wildcat athletes he coached provided some of the fondest memories of my college career. I will never forget the elation and school pride I felt as I rushed the field with the rest of the frenzied student section when NU defeated Michigan at Ryan Field on November 4, 2000, my freshman year.
My deepest condolences to family, friends, staff, and athletes. He will be missed by many.
Hosea henderson
June 30, 2006
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Coach Walker. We are honored that life presented us with the opportunity to be associated with Coach Walker. We will cherish those memories and pray for his family.
Hosea & Yvonne Henderson # 24
Donn Eichhorn
June 30, 2006
I am a recent arrival to Troy, in 1999, but I didn't have to be in town very long before the name Randy Walker came up; not only concerning football but simply as the person he was. As residents of Troy we could not ask for a better representative of our city. May we learn from his example. To the family I hope your memories of Coach Walker sustains you through this very trobled time.
Eve Cusac
June 30, 2006
It is with great sadness that I sit here, tears streaming down my face, hoping Randy's family can find peace and understanding through his living life to it's fullest. I've known Randy and his brother Rob for many years, graduating with Rob from Troy HS in '73. Tonight, while watching the news at my parents' home, I recalled a night when my two older brothers camped out in the Walker's backyard. As a joke, their dad made them popcorn, but put sugar on it instead of salt just to "surprise" they guys. Both Randy and Rob were members of my parents' 4-H club. I knew Randy as a kind, caring, upstanding, conscientious person. I have followed his football career over the years with great pride. He will be sorely missed, but has left his mark for others to epitomize. Rest well, Randy; you played/coached your best. My heart goes out to the entire Walker family at this time of sadness. Bless you all!
Matt Rice
June 30, 2006
My first memory of Coach Walker is from 1995. He was the head coach at Miami and I was a defensive tackle at Northwestern. After rolling off a pile following my futile attempt to block the kick that ended our chance at an unbeaten season that year, I saw Coach Walker walk onto the field. He was calm and collected, as if it were merely inevitable that Miami of Ohio would erase our 21- point third quarter lead.
While I felt nothing but respectful disdain for Coach Walker at that moment, I was also relieved I never had to play against another Randy Walker coached team again.
When Northwestern hired him in 1999, I was happy he was now on our side. His Northwestern teams over the years, through the good and the bad, shared one attribute: they never quit. His teams had more energy in the fourth quarter than the first. As Coach Walker engineered many last minute victories over the years, I think you'll find that most were not a result of acrobatic playmaking heroics, but were simply the inevitable result of his team exhibiting poise and character under the most difficult circumstances. In essence, his teams had character. Over the years, I've found that teams tend to adopt the personality of their coach.
Although I never played for you, I will dearly miss you, Coach Walker. You were one of the good guys.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Walker family.
Matt Rice
NU Class of '97
K.M.
June 30, 2006
I didn't know Randy Walker personally. But from what I've seen what a wonderful person when he took the NU job he encouraged all his recruits at Miami of Ohio to stay there get their education. He took the high road imo. And f he was like this dang what a great person. My thoughts and prayers are with the Walker Family at this time.
Bill Semmer
June 30, 2006
A great man, a great coach and a great friend. You will never be forgotten, Walk.
Richard and Kit Harris NU '72
June 30, 2006
As alums with a daughter at Northwestern, we marveled at the fresh excitement Randy Walker injected into the Wildcat football program. We were stunned to hear of his sudden passing and send our thoughts and prayers to his family. I hope they take some comfort in all the lives he touched in his far too brief life.
Showing 1 - 100 of 305 results
Make a Donation
in Randy Walker's name
How to support Randy's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Randy Walker's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored