James "JD" Walker

Peacefully on Monday, May 6, 2019, James “JD” Walker passed away with family by his side at the Portage District General Hospital at the age of 83 years.

JD/Dad will be lovingly remembered by his son Mitch (Glory) Walker; wife Marlene Walker; sister-in-law Eleanor Smith, sister Patricia Murrin (Mike); granddaughter Mandy (Peter) Sharkey; great-grandchildren Wyatt and Zoe Lavallee; special friends Kerry and Ann Wilk from Victoria, BC; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.  He was predeceased by his parents James and Irene Walker; brothers John Walker and Dr. George Levi Sharpe.

JD enrolled in the Canadian Armed Forces in Newfoundland on September 1, 1955. He retired in 1981 as a Master Corporal after a 26 year career in the Royal Canadian Air Force. JD met Marlene at the Macdonald Air Force Base. They were married in 1959.

He was transferred to CFB Portage la Prairie in September 1964. During the two year period from January 1966 to January 1968 he served with, the RCAF Golden Centenaires aerobatic display team as a telecommunications technician. During his stay at Southport he also served in many capacities with the Southport Carnival committee, Junior Ranks Mess, as mess manager, bar officer, and entertainment chairman. As a resident of the city of Portage la Prairie he became President and Treasurer of the Northside athletic club. JD was also an active member of the Portage SCUBA club that operated out of the old Southport Pool.

From 1977 to 1978, JD served as a member of the United Nations Peacekeeping Forces in Damascus Syria. As a “Blue Beret”, JD also maintained his military duties as part of the 116 ATU squadron. In 1988, the “Blue Beret” United Nation Peacekeeping Forces were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. This document was proudly displayed by JD on the walls of his residence.

J D retired from the Canadian military in 1981 at his last posting at Comox BC where he was a member of the 442 Search and Rescue squadron. JD relocated to Victoria BC and started his second career as a Certified Financial Planner by enrolling at Camosun College. After graduating with an Arts Diploma in Business Administration (Finance), JD began working for Great Pacific Management Company. JD then continued his financial management career and last work with Investment Planning Council.

JD had several residences in Victoria including Gorge Rd. East and Ross Place. JD left Victoria in late November 2017 to reside with his son Mitch and daughter-in-law Glory until his passing.

During his time in Victoria, JD owned and operated two boat’s that were moored at the Oak Bay Marina. His first boat was named “With a Client” and his second was called “Just Dandy”. There were many pleasure cruises and fishing trips with family and friends aboard these vessels.

JD was also an avid golfer and was a member of the Royal Colwood Golf Club for several years.

In his retirement, JD volunteered at the Salvation Army Thrift Stores. JD used his electronic\avionics experience from the military to refurbish donated electronic devices for resale.

During his 36 years in Victoria, JD enjoyed many family celebrations at the home of Kerry and Ann Wilk. JD also witnessed and celebrated the growth of Kerry and Ann’s two daughters Amanda and Alicia.

The family wishes to extend its deep appreciation and respect to Dr. Quesada, Dr. Dow, Dr. R Price, Dr. J Price, and the nurses on the medical, I C U, and surgical wards at the Portage Hospital.

Viewing and Visitation will take place at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel on Thursday, May 16, 2019 from 7:00 to 8:00 pm.  Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Friday, May 17, 2019 at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel, led by Rev. John Dolloff.

As expressions of sympathy, if friends so wish, donations may be made in James’ memory to Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 1379 Kenaston Boulevard Winnipeg, MB R3P 2T5 or Portage District General Hospital Foundation, 524 – 5th St.SE, Portage la Prairie, MB, R1N 3A8.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  204-857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com