Mr. James William Walker of Red Deer, Alberta, passed away peacefully at the Red Deer Hospice on Friday, November 29, 2024, at the age of 89 years, surrounded by his loving family. James was born on November 12, 1935, in the mountain town of Nordegg, Alberta, to Elizabeth Catherine (née Wood) and William Walker. Growing up in Nordegg was a boyhood dream come true. James spent his early years exploring the mountains on horseback, breaking horses, and hunting and fishing. His first job involved stoking the fires at the local theater to keep patrons warm. Later, he worked alongside his father, guiding geologists and caring for pack horses—an adventurous life that instilled in him a love of nature and a deep well of stories to share with his children and grandchildren. It was in Nordegg that James met the love of his life, Kathleen Joyce Billey, through her best friend Joan. The two quickly became inseparable, and their love blossomed in the mountain town. James and Kathleen were married in 1955 and soon moved to Red Deer, where they built a life full of love, adventure, and devotion to family. James’ formal education ended after the seventh grade, but his thirst for knowledge and determination to succeed carried him far. In Red Deer, he began his career at Eaton’s, selling furniture. Over the years, James wore many hats to support his growing family of six children. By day, he managed the Transportation Department at Michener Centre, a role he held for over 25 years. Outside of his main job, James drove a taxi, delivered Christmas parcels with his kids, started a flyer delivery company to teach his children the value of hard work, and even ventured into real estate. A true entrepreneur with a cowboy’s heart, James had an unmatched work ethic. He built several family homes, including one with a suite for his father to live with them and another on the family farm near Chain Lakes. The farm became a gathering place for family adventures, creating cherished memories for generations. James had an enduring love for the mountains and nature. From camping and hiking with his children as infants to leading family climbs up Baldy and Colosseum mountains, he passed down his passion for the outdoors. These adventures often included extended family and friends, with everyone piling into the old yellow van for unforgettable outings. A strong, resilient, and courageous man, James defied the odds many times. His legacy of love, adventure, and family lives on through his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Known by many names— “Dad,” “Pops,” “Papa,” “Grandpa,” “Gramps,” and “Jim”—he was deeply admired and cherished by all who knew him. James was predeceased by his beloved wife of 65 years, Kathleen Joyce Billey, in 2022; his parents, Elizabeth and William; his sister Joyce Gertrude Andres; and his firstborn infant son, Kip Gordon. He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Celeste, Vance (Suzanne), Darren, Kim, Tracy (Darren), and Troy (Paula); his sixteen grandchildren; and his fifteen great-grandchildren. His warmth, kindness, and adventurous spirit leave a legacy that will endure for generations. A Memorial Service to celebrate James’ life will be held at Home Church, Legacy Centre, 1 England Way, Red Deer, Alberta, on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. Memorial donations in James’ honor may be made directly to the Red Deer Hospice Society at www.reddeerhospice.com

Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium (Red Deer)

6287 – 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.

ONLY LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED FUNERAL HOME/CREMATORIUM

IN THE CITY OF RED DEER

• Date : 2024-12-13
• Location : (Red Deer) LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED (Red Deer/Blackfalds/Eckville) www.ParklandFuneralHome.com & (Innisfail/Olds/Didsbury/Sundre) www.HeartlandFuneralServices.com