Arthur Robert Walker of Abbotsford, BC passed away peacefully on the 16th of February at the age of 80. He is survived by his wife Jeanne, son Brian and daughter Janice and sisters Marlene, Terry, Nonie and sister-in-law Lorraine.
Art was many things to many people in his long, interesting life: husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, great-uncle, soldier and peacekeeper with Canada’s military, and a faithful friend. Born in 1931, he was predeceased by his sisters Yvonne, Mary Jane, Joan and his brothers Bill and Ernie.
He started life at a strapping 10 pounds in Rossland, BC in 1931. Joining the Royal Canadian Engineers in 1948 his military career took him to many points in Canada as well as to Korea and Egypt with the United Nations and Germany. He returned to the Chilliwack army base in 1969 where he spent many happy days as an Instructor at the Trades Training School until retirement from the army in 1974. Retiring on a Friday he then launched into a new career the following Monday with the District of Matsqui as a heavy equipment operator until retirement in 1994.
Art and Jeanne were married in 1953 and had two children while roaming the world with the military. They had the joy of celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in the company of family and friends and continued to celebrate life and retirement gardening, traveling to Britain, Scotland, Ireland and Wales with many enjoyable and profitable short trips to Las Vegas and Reno.
Art battled prostate cancer and its effects for 20 years and until his last days made the best of each and every day. Slowing down gracefully and with dignity he didn’t give an inch until he could no longer stay with us. He will be missed but always remembered.
A celebration of his life with a gathering of family and friends will be held this Saturday.
In lieu of flowers donations to the BC Children’s Hospital or a charitable organization close to your heart would be appreciated.
Online condolences can be left at
www.hendersonabbotsfordfunerals.com