William J. Walker

Bill Walker, 92, of North Bend, died peacefully in his sleep on January 6, 2016, surrounded by family and friends. Beloved by all who knew him, he will be deeply missed.

Born in New York in the 1920s, Bill attended Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, graduating in engineering; and Columbia University for officer training during WWII. He served in the US Navy from 1943-1946 on an aircraft carrier in the Pacific. He met his wife, Elynor, at Columbia and they were married in December 1944. They have three sons, Stephen, Phillip, and Matthew.

Bill relocated his family to California, where Elly’s family lived. The family eventually settled in Panorama City, where he worked as an aero space engineer at Lockheed. He retired in 1978 and he and Elly eventually relocated to North Bend, Washington, where his youngest son Matt’s family lived. A man of many talents, Bill immersed himself in various part-time jobs: from real estate, to security, to library page, and office support at his son’s business, Wilderness Glass. Bill was gregarious and made many friends in his new home of North Bend; he loved the natural beauty and small-town community.

His passion for volunteering was great; he spearheaded and co-produced the 1989 film “Life on the Tracks” about the rich history of railroads in the Snoqualmie Valley; and was also a member of Our Lady of Sorrows church in Snoqualmie. Bill loved trains; studied physics, calculus and Spanish into his 80s; wrote continually; and always remained active in his community.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife Elly. He is survived by son Stephen & wife Judy; son Phillip and wife Judy; and son Matthew & wife Viola. He also has seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, as well as extended family (the Sandens and Tidicks), and a huge collection of friends. He will be remembered for his sharp wit and intellect, generosity and charm, and most of all his warmth and kindness.

A memorial service will be held at the Mt. Si Senior Center on Saturday, February 20th from 11AM to 2PM. All those who knew and loved Bill are welcome to attend.