Vernon Chester Walker, Sr.

Vernon Chester Walker Sr., 97, passed away March 9, 2017 in Solterra Senior Living, in Lakeside, Arizona. He was born July 1, 1919 to C. and Nellie Fant Walker in Cashion, Arizona. Moving to Scottsdale in 1920, Vernon attended grades 1-8 at Scottsdale Grammar School and was a 1937 graduate of Scottsdale High School. On October 23,1938 Vernon married his high school sweetheart, Gertrude Fox. Four children were born: Arline, Vernon Jr. (Bud), Connie and Danny. Dec. 7, 1941 changed the world. Vernon supported the war at home as he and a government work crew constructed military facilities. He enlisted in the Navy and, in October 1944,Vernon shipped out to Manus Island, South Pacific where he worked on the Floating Dry Dock as a Carpenter's Mate 2nd Class. At the end of the war, 15 months later, and with little possible communication, he came home to his family. Vernon was very proud and honored to wear his “WWII Navy Veteran” cap and display his” WWII Veteran” license plate.As an active member at Scottsdale First Baptist Church and many years at Pinetop First Baptist Church, Vernon taught Sunday School, served as a deacon, a trustee and in other areas of church leadership. He was always ready to lend a helping hand when needed. The multipurpose building at Pinetop was named “The Vernon Walker Worship Center”. The Men's 6:00 Thursday morning prayer breakfast was a highlight. As a master builder, Vernon spent years creating homes, businesses and our own homes. “Vernon Walker and Sons” was the trademark of building with quality and beautiful craftsmanship. Left to celebrate his life: children- Arline Ryan (Carl) of Rogers, Arkansas, Bud-Vernon Jr. (Patsy) of Dolores, Colorado, Connie Larson and Dan Walker, both of Pine, Arizona; Sister: Nona Lee Bliss (age 106!) Placerville, Calif., brother Harold Walker, Tampa, FL - brother-in-law, Manley (Sue) Fox of Scottsdale; grandchildren - Carline (Marshall) Sinkler, Julie (Scott) Funcannon, Vernon III (Brenda) Walker, Jennifer (Brett) Crouse, Amanda (Kevin) Short, Christian Larson, Jason (Lucy) Walker, Leslie Walker, Destiny Walker; 16 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins. Vernon had a special spot in his heart for each child and grandchild. He delighted in his family. Great REJOICING occurred when Vernon was welcomed in his new home: His Lord Jesus and Gertrude, his precious wife of 77 years, his parents, brother, Boots, and grandchildren, Deborah Walker and Kenneth Ryan; and others of theWalker, Fant and Fox families plus many friends. More information/pictures at www.ozarkview.com/VCW. A get-together to honor and remember Vernon will be held at a later date. Cremains burial at Lakeside Cemetery.Our appreciation and thanks to the staff at Solterra for their kindness since August 2016 and especially to the Memory Care Unit for the love shown. To Dad's Hospice Nurse, Renee, our gratitude for the patience and special care given these last weeks. The struggle is over and Dad is at peace. Memorial gifts in Vernon's name may be made to: Hospice Compassus, 1789 W. Commerce Drive, Lakeside, AZ 85929 or Solterra Senior Living, 5408 Arizona Highway 260, Lakeside AZ 85929.