Mark Charles Walton

1952 - 2024

WALTON, Mark Charles, 71, of Chester, Va passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends on 30 Jan 2024 after a brief illness. He is predeceased by his parents Harry and France Walton. He is survived by sisters Colette Gailliot, Monique Walton and brother Gregg, many special cousins, and his Beloved, Valeria Murphy (babydoll). A special thank you goes out to all those who loved and supported Mark during his illness, especially his medical angel.

Born in Washington, DC in 1952, raised in Kensington, MD and Frankfurt, Germany. Mark graduated from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC with a degree in Music Education. He joined the Air Force ROTC and his passion for flying "took off" from there.

During his tenure in the Air Force Mark flew the F-111's and was selected for the prestigious AF's Fighter Weapons School. In 1986 Mark lead the overall planning for Operation Eldorado Canyon, the longest aerial strike mission from Europe since WW II, and a decisive blow against terrorism. Returning to the United States, Mark joined the Virginia Air National Guard flying the A7 and F16 aircraft and flying combat missions in Iraq . Mark finished his military career as a Lieutenant Colonel serving his country for over 21 years.

After leaving the Air Force, Mark went on to fly for Northwest Airlines (now Delta) and retired as a Captain with over 30 years of service. On his final flight, loved ones were among his passengers.

Mark played trombone throughout his life, from high school to studying with John Marsalis at The Catholic University of America, to playing in the brass section of a DC area popular cover band in the 70's, Fancy Colours. While stationed in England, Mark played trombone in the Oxford Symphony Orchestra. He was even known to carry his trombone mouthpiece to practice for church band on his commercial flights (much to the entertainment and dismay of those around him). He kept his "chops" in shape to play for Easter and Christmas masses at his local parish, St. Michael's in Richmond until he gave up his Trombone to a special person to carry on for him.

Mark was like that. Generous, caring and loving to his family and the tremendous family of friends he was blessed with over the course of his life.

There will be no funeral at this time but a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Have a toast with your favorite beverage in his honor.

"Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been and there you will always long to be." - Leonardo da Vinci