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Thomas Frederick Walker

1951 - 2023

BORN

1951

DIED

2023

About

St. Francis de Sales High School Ohio State University

Thomas Walker Obituary

Thomas Frederick Walker

March 8, 1951 - May 22, 2023

Thomas (Tom) Walker, 72, of Toledo, OH and Annapolis, MD passed on Monday, May 22, 2023 at Ann Arundel Hospital, Annapolis, MD. Tom is preceded in death by his parents Robert D. and Marguerite Walker of Toledo, OH. He attended St. Francis de Sales High School and The Ohio State University.

Tom had an illustrious career as one of the top golf course superintendents in the country, starting at Kettenring Golf Club, then Highland Meadows and moving to Inverness Club in Toledo OH in 1979. In his first year at Inverness, he successfully hosted the 1979 US Open, and followed with 1986 and 1993 PGA Championships, and the 2003 Senior US Open. The exceptional course maintenance under Tom's direction undoubtedly was a major factor in Inverness's continued prominence as an elite course in the USA, perpetually ranking on Golf Digest's Top 100 list. Following his accomplishments at Inverness, in 2006 Tom oversaw the construction of a private golf course and facilities in Maryland which he managed until his death. Throughout his career Tom was active in research and development, pioneering the use of agents like imidacloprid and paclobutrazol, incorporating the latest irrigation technologies into his courses, and even influencing golf equipment. In addition to his career, Tom was an avid snow skier becoming a member of Mt. Brighton MI ski patrol and a bike enthusiast, enjoying both mountain biking and road rides. Above all, Tom loved his family. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl (nee Pollack); sons, Michael (Leona) and Christopher (Ann-Kathrin); grandsons, Liam, Aiden and Darby; and granddaughter, Emmy; his sister, Kathleen; and brother, Robert.

Tom will be remembered for the zest and passion he brought to life with his family, his work, his travels and those lucky enough to call him a friend. A memorial will be held late fall in Ohio.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Blade on Jun. 29, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Walker

12 Entries

Cheryl Walker

June 21, 2024

A year has gone by since Tom's passing and I miss him so much. Of course love and companionship are foremost- sharing a meal together, planning a trip, seeing a new point of interest for the first time together, even watching a new tv show together. I miss sharing the parenting and grandparenting experiences with Tom and I miss his daily compliments. I know he was extremely proud of his family.
The great beyond is incomprehensible but there are times when I believe he is watching. I truly hope he is happy and experiencing new adventures, just as he did in this life.

Sue Reid Stephens

July 5, 2023

I remember Tom working nights at Inverness while a Senior in high school. He said someone had to monitor the sprinklers. A very gentle and kind person. Sincere condolences.

Todd Brickman

June 30, 2023

I first met Tom when I was in college looking for a job. I worked at a course in cleveland and after a few behind the scenes phone calls later I was told to show up at Inverness when I went back to school. On my first day, I showed up in shorts and took lunch when my morning job done. Tom told me years later, he didn't think I would last through the first paycheck and the over under was one week. Well I did make it through many more paychecks and I quickly learned from Tom the ideals of professionalism and success is in the details. Tom was big on education and was a big supporter of mine throughout the years- whether it was giving time off for lab projects, a kind word of reassurance that it was all worth it, or helping to navigate the political landscape of life. Tom and I stayed friends throughout the years, even if just by phone. It was always great to hear his voice and that quintessential snicker of his when he would crack a joke.
Tom, I thank you for the positive influence and support you have had on my life. Cheryl and the boys, I wish you strength and courage during these times. His loss is great and the pain felt now is due to the joy he brought in living. I'll make sure my Dad greets him at the pearly gates and leads him to the first tee. I'm sure there are a few courses in heaven that could use his turf expertise.

John Mohn

June 30, 2023

Tom was so giving and helpful, and so funny. I met him when I was a caddie master at Inverness. He invited me to his house to give me plant cuttings for my garden. He loaned me a camera for a long vacation out west. He would show me where the owl nests were on the Inverness property. Once, we were in his cart at Inverness, and a hawk swooped down right in front of us and snatched a squirrel, then flew away. Tom looked at me and said, "It's better to be the hawk."
RIP my friend!

If not too much trouble, please keep me informed about a memorial service.

Terry Kennelly

June 29, 2023

I was fortunate enough to work for Tom at Inverness Club in the early stages of my golf course maintenance career from 1986-1993. In that timeframe, Tom instilled and displayed excellence, professionalism, loyalty and what it meant to be try and be your best everyday. I've tried to carry these traits with me throughout my life daily as a result of working with Tom. Tom was not only a mentor of mine but also a great friend that would do anything for you. Theres no question I wouldn't be where I'm at today without his guidance and friendship. Tom set the standard for championship golf for golf course superintendents throughout the country. I will be forever grateful for our friendship and the time we spent together.

Brian Thompson

June 29, 2023

My deep condolences to Cheryl and family. Tom was one of the greatest turfgrass minds of all time and an outstanding Superintendent. He was dedicated to his craft, had the keenest eye for detail, and a beautiful grasp of new technology while always appreciating traditional practices and methodologies. I'm proud to have worked for Tom and maintained a close friendship that has impacted my career in so many ways. Rest in peace Tom.

Joe Sweeney

June 29, 2023

I am so sorry to hear of this news. My deepest condolences to the entire Walker family. Tom was certainly one of the most earnest individuals I have ever known. He had such a great passion for all his pursuits. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Paul R. Reymann

June 29, 2023

I am honored to have known Shaymus (Tom) for the years he was in Harwood. His friendship and kindness will always be a wonderful memory.
Paul Reymann (from Windsor Farms in Harwood).

Tab Hinkle

June 28, 2023

What a gentleman! Growing up as a junior memeber at Inverness, Mr. Walker was always kind, and considerate to a young kid that didn't necessarily deserve it. I know that my father, Bob Hinkle, loved his relationship with Tom working with him closely through the 89 and 93 PGA's. he will be missed by all that knew him and my condolences to the family.

Nancy P. Kabat

June 28, 2023

I´ll never forget Tom coming to get me one morning in his cart.
He explained to my playing partners that he knew I loved wildlife,and the turtles were hatching. Off we went !
I missed a hole but loved watching them hatch!! Countless times he closed my sunroof during a storm. A very special guy. Nancy Kabat

Tom Valentine

June 28, 2023

Tom had a powerful mind and could pivot from Turfgrass topics to quantum physics in an instant. He was a master of golf course construction and management and was always in pursuit of new products and methods to improve his courses. Most of all he had endless energy and passion for his work and his family. A true original.

Matt Shaffer

June 27, 2023

Tom was an exceptional friend and without a doubt one of the smartest Superintendents I ever met. Tom was always willing to help you with his vast knowledge. I enjoyed our visits and thankful I had the honor of being his friend!

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