Darrell Gene Walker

1946 - 2022

Darrell Gene Walker
June 29, 1946 - March 13, 2022
A native of Sonoma and lifelong resident, Darrell Gene Walker passed away on March 13, 2022, after twelve days in ICU with his love Sherry by his side. He was 75 years old. Born June 29th, 1946 to Theodore and Dorthy Walker, he was a dedicated and loyal family man who's drive and ongoing love of learning resonated with those in his life.
Darrell and Sherry O'Donnell shared 38 loving years together. They enjoyed live music, travel and were avid movie-goers. Some of their favorite times were spent celebrating special family traditions like barbecuing oysters at Bodega Bay, lamb and prime rib dinners with family and friends. Step-father to Kari and Ryan O'Donnell, he helped raise them like his own and shared his love for knowledge with them always.
Darrell attended Flowery school and graduated from Sonoma Valley High School Class of 1964. After graduation he served a year in the Peace Corps in Africa, an experience that made a lasting impression on his life and cemented a deep appreciation for a variety of people and cultures. Upon his return he continued his education graduating from Sonoma State University in 1970 with a degree in Political Science. Following that he completed a year at Stanford University, of which he was most proud, towards a degree in law. Darrell worked as a paralegal in Santa Rosa but eventually returned to the family business, Walker Septic Service, established in 1941 by Ted and Dorthy Walker. After his parents' passing, Darrell owned and operated Walker Septic Service in Sonoma for over 18 years. He took pride working alongside his family while serving his community.
Darrell spent his youth developing his passion for cars, he enjoyed building and driving them throughout his life and was lovingly known for owning too many to name over the years. He enjoyed watching Nascar, was a loyal 49er fan and found a sense of spirituality in life through his love and practice of martial arts. Darrell had an infectious laugh, warm smile and devilish sense of humor. A calm and thoughtful force, he was consistently patient, a good listener and loyal friend. He was deeply protective of the ones he loved, the "fixer" in our family, he was always there when you needed him, if not before. He was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.
He is survived by the love of his life Sherry O'Donnell, his step-daughter Kari Otero (Nelson), beloved brother and sister-in-law Carl and Claudia Walker, brother-in-law Jack Simmons, step-grandson Brad O'Donnell, nephews William Walker (Summer), Scott Walker, nieces Kelly Greene, Kim Subaie (Will), Beverly Walker, Jackie Sims, Teddie Hingst, great nephews Lincoln and Levi Subaie, Zachary Greene, great nieces Zoe Greene, Leeann Walker and others he adored. Step-nephews Darin Downey (Pam), Greg Downey (Hillary) and step-niece Daisha Downey. He was preceded in death by his step-son Ryan O'Donnell, his parents Theodore and Dorthy Walker, brother Ted Walker Junior, sisters Marilyn Wills, Patty Simmons and Pamela Walker.
There will be a celebration of life at Duggan's Mission Chapel (525 West Napa Street in Sonoma) Saturday June 4th, 2022, at 11:00AM. Reception to follow at the family home. Donations in his memory may be made to the Pets Lifeline in Sonoma by visiting https://www.petslifeline.org.