Stanley N. "Stan" Walker

Stan Walker passed away peacefully in the company of his family on Saturday, March 26, 2022, at the age of nearly 84. He was born in 1938 on Mare Island, CA. The beloved son of Cmdr. Charles H. Walker and Helen Reynolds Walker, Stan grew up in a US Navy family, spending his early childhood in San Diego, CA, then on to other locations across the country. He graduated from Colorado Springs High School in 1956, then earned a B.A. in Art Education from University of Northern Colorado in 1960. Inspired by his father's naval tours at sea, Stan's adventurous spirit lured him to the Pacific, where he took a position teaching art for the government of the island of Guam from 1960 to 1962. He continued his travels, going on to Japan, across parts of Russia on the Trans-Siberian railway, and on through Europe back to the United States.

His curiosity for new experiences compelled him to teach art for two years in New Hampshire, where he met and married Susan Appleton of Gorham, NH, in 1963. As they started their family, he then received his M.Ed. from Indiana University, before settling in Montpelier, VT, in 1966, where he taught Studio Art at Vermont College for ten impactful years. This chapter was marked by a growing family, close friendships, and a personal creative focus on abstract expressionism through oil painting. Entering another stage of his career, he taught art in the Waterbury, VT, School System until his retirement in 2004. His broad professional experience and kind approach to teaching empowered students with a solid foundation in the arts.

Stan was known by many for his easy laugh, comforting smile, and witty conversation. His discerning eye for visual design was apparent, whether he was appreciating an art exhibit or enjoying the outdoors. An avid fisherman from a young age, he developed a keen interest in fly-tying and the craft of the sport in freshwater and saltwater settings. His sports enthusiasm inspired his family, through his passion for tennis, nordic skiing, running, canoeing, and golf. He was comfortable talking with most anyone, whether about Red Sox baseball highlights, travel, literature, or his love of music, stemming from his early performances as a member of the 1960s folk trio "The Jolly Rogues" on Guam. His generous friendship and optimistic attitude continue to inspire all of us who had the benefit of knowing him.

He is survived by his wife, Susan A. Walker, his three children, Libby Walker Davidson of Colchester, VT, Adam Walker (and wife Rachel Jolly) of Burlington, VT, and Eli Walker of Intervale, NH, along with grandchildren: Charles Davidson, Mason (Eleanor) Davidson, and Shayna Walker. He also leaves many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was predeceased by his two sisters, Charlotte Zoe Walker and Marian Walker Stauffer.

The family would like to extend their appreciation for the care he received from the staff at Central Vermont Medical Center, UVM Medical Center, and McClure Miller Respite House.

A memorial service will be planned for later this year in a setting that befits Stan's love of the outdoors.

Donations in memory of Stan can be made to The Kellogg Hubbard Library and/or the Nature Conservancy in Vermont.