Don R. Walker

Marion- Don R. Walker, 63, of Marion, passed away at 10:04 AM, Friday, December 28, 2007, at his home surrounded by his loving family. Don was born in Herrin on August 2, 1944 to Robert & Eddybelle (Darnell) Walker Jones and was raised by his grandparents, Hubert & Ida Walker who dearly loved him. He married his loving wife Brenda Artist on October 27, 1962 in Marion and shared 45 precious years together. He was a welder all his life and retired from Florida Power Corp. Upon retiring and moving back to Illinois he became a proud member of the Pigeon Inn Club in Herrin. He loved to play golf with his brother in law, Joe Lapinski, Kenny Dawes & Bill Wade and all his Pigeon Inn buddies. He loved to fish and caught many trophy bass with his longtime friend, Bobby Wilkerson, who he thought of as a brother. He also enjoyed bass fishing with his childhood friend, George Martin and his good buddy, Dick Wiggins. His favorite hobby was building and racing airboats with his dear friend, Ray Hammock. He was a loving husband and father and was devoted to his grandchildren. He will be forever missed, but can rest in peace as he is in the arms of Gods loving care. He leaves behind- His loving wife- Brenda Walker of Marion Son & daughter in law- Jerry & Connie Walker of Inverness, FL Daughter & son in law- Donna & Mark Kerns of Pittsburg Precious grandchildren- Cheyenne & Wesley Kerns Sister & brother in law- Judy & David Hammers of Paluto, Mexico Numerous sister & brother in laws & nieces & nephews He was preceded in death by his parents, paternal grandparents- Hubert & Ida Walker & maternal grandparents; George & Mary Darnell. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 PM, Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Rev. Eddy Donelson will officiate. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6-9:00 PM, Tuesday, January 1, 2008 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Memorial donations are suggested to Hospice of Southern Illinois and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home/ 201 S. 13th St./ Herrin, IL 62948.