Donald L. Walker

Donald L. Walker 1940 – 2016
Donald L. Walker, 76, of Belvidere, passed away peacefully in his home Saturday, June 18, 2016. He was born April 28, 1940, son of Mary and Howard Walker, in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Donald graduated from West High School in 1958, began as an apprentice, and became a gifted carpenter of the Local Union 792 for 56 years. Some of the major projects he supervised include the Rockford Airport, the Rockford Ice House, Nicor Gas, St. Anne’s Nursing Home, Jefferson High School, and residential home construction. He was always willing to help friends, family, neighbors and others with projects. He lovingly built two beautiful homes for his family, Kathleen, wife of 56 years, daughter Laura, and son Doug (Susan).
Donald was an avid model railroad enthusiast (Illinois Central was his favorite) and was a member of several railroading groups. His love of trains began as child when his mother took him to watch the trains while his father worked at Camp Grant in Rockford. He enjoyed photography and traveling with his family and friends. He was a member of Beth Eden and St. John’s United Methodist Churches. He was always kind, thoughtful, generous and honest.
A special thank you to Dr. John Holtan and his dear wife Eileen, and the staff at Northern Illinois Hospice for their care and compassionate service. We also wish to express our appreciation for special friends for thoughtful cards, prayers, and visits.
A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Beth Eden United Methodist Church, 3201 Huffman Blvd., Rockford on Thursday, June 23, 2016. Visitation is prior to the service from 9:30 – 10:45. Memorials may be made to Beth Eden UMC or Northern Illinois Hospice. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. – Send online condolence at www.fitzgeraldfh.com