In Loving Memory of John Ernest Walker, Jr. beloved Husband, Father, Son, Brother, Uncle and Cherished Grandfather.
John, a role model of love and inspiration, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2024 at the age of 89. He gracefully transitioned from this world surrounded by the warmth of his family, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
Born on April 29, 1935, John was a beacon of light to all who knew him. A lifelong learner, he attended Boston College High School and graduated from Boston College in 1958. After teaching high school science in Connecticut for a year, John pursued further education. He earned his Master’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and went on to receive his Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Biochemistry and Immunology at Northeastern University and Boston University School of Medicine.
John devoted more than 40 years of his professional life to the Natick Army Laboratories as a Biochemist, where his contributions were pivotal in advancing field support for U.S. military personnel. His passion for research was evident through his published studies and his collaboration with Dr. Fran Hoskin at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Together, they discovered and studied an enzyme found in squid nerve tissue capable of breaking down compounds known as 'nerve gasses'. He instilled in us all the belief that continuous learning can truly make the world a better place.
On April 3, 1961, John married the love of his life, Katherine Hetherington Walker, and they recently celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary. John was not only a devoted husband, but also a loving father, son, brother, and uncle, cherished by his grandchildren as "Papa". He found immense joy in their laughter and took great pride in witnessing their growth. His boundless love, care, kindness, and compassion will forever be remembered in their hearts.
John's happiest moments were spent with family and friends at the Dennisport Cottage, playing his banjo, “closing” the beach, and creating cherished memories that will endure for generations.
John was predeceased by his wife Katherine Hetherington Walker and his brother Michael Edward Walker, Sr. John is survived by his loving daughter, Traci Walker Griffith and her husband John of Charlestown and son, Garrett Walker and his wife Cate of North Carolina. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Joey and Elizabeth Griffith, Brendan and Bridget Walker; his dear brother, Brian Walker of Maryland and dear sister in laws Marcia Walker of Medfield and Patricia O’Hara of Connecticut as well as many nephews, nieces, Godchildren and other relatives and friends. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who were blessed to know him.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend John's Visiting Hours on Thursday morning, July 18, 2024 from 8 A.M. - 9:30 A.M. in The Carr Funeral Home, 220 Bunker Hill Street, Charlestown followed by his Funeral Mass at 10 A.M. in St. Francis de Sales Church, 313 Bunker Hill Street, Charlestown. His burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, kindly make a memorial donation in John's name to:
St. Francis De Sales Church Building Fund
46 Winthrop St.
Charlestown, MA 02129