Keith A. Walker, 86, walked into Heaven as a tall, strong man early Wednesday morning, September 10, 2014. He was ready and at peace.
He was the son of Joseph and Blanche Walker. He was born Aug. 31, 1928 and raised in Walton, IN. As a young man he pumped gas and worked on cars at his Dad's garage. He graduated from Walton High School in 1946 and soon after joined the Army. He served his country in the Korea Conflict from 1951-1952. Upon returning home, he married Carolyn Hardt, the love of his life, on August 7, 1954. Carolyn passed away 3 years ago.
After leaving Weldstar, Keith entered the auto parts business and finally owned his own store, Walker's Auto Parts, until his retirement in 1993. He worked hard to provide for his family.
Keith was an avid motorcycle rider all of his life up until this past Easter, when he was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. He once had to sell a motorcycle to buy windows for his home. He enjoyed restoring antique motorcycles as well. Keith liked watching sports on TV, especially NASCAR and fishing trips with friends.
He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church, a 60 year member of the American Legion Post 418, the 40 & 8 organization, and the V.F.W. #3790. Keith was also involved with the 40 & 8 Nurses Scholarship Program, the Lions Club, past president of the Fairview PTA, he taught Sunday School at Grace Lutheran Church, he was the Sunday School Superintendent, and served on the Church council. Keith actively participated in many Military funerals with the Cass County Honor Guard.
Keith and Carolyn are survived by three children, Susan (Chico) Rodriguez, Logansport; Jan (Gabe) Swing, Long Island, Bahamas; and Joe (Kristi) Walker, Mulberry. They also adored their six grandchildren, Brandon (Alex) Rodriguez, Lindsey (Robert) Penn, Kenny DeHart, Grace Swing, Morgan Walker, and Ryan Walker, and how proud they were of their five great grandsons, Ryder, Jack, Hudson, Brennan, and Noah.
Keith was preceded in death by his beloved wife Carolyn, his parents, Joe and Blanche, and an infant brother, Paul.
A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, September 15, 2014, in the Gundrum Funeral Home with Pastor Larry Devos officiating. Burial with full Military graveside rites will be held in Mount Hope Cemetery.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 - 5:00 PM on Sunday, September 14, also in the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church or the 40 & 8 Nursing Scholarship Fund with the Cass County Community Foundation.
You may sign the guest book and send online condolences at www.gundrumcares.com