Donald L. Walker

Donald L. Walker, age 94, left this world to meet his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and be reunited with his loving wife of 73 years, Bernice J. Walker who preceded him in death on May 1st, 2025.

Survived by his children Jeanne (Kevin) Forkal and Donald M. Walker, and brother James (Kay) Walker. Several nieces and nephews survive.

He was preceded in death by his mother and father, Sylvia Hodgson and Harold Walker, his sister, Norma (Ed) Peters, and brothers Harold Walker, Jr., and Raymond (Jeanette) Walker.

Born in Joliet and a lifelong resident, Don met the love of his life, Bernice while working at Sweetorr & Co in Joliet. He also worked at the EJ&E Railroad in Joliet as a painter, owned and operated the Spa Tavern in Joliet, and before retirement worked as a Power Truck Operator at Caterpillar Tractor Company in Joliet for 30 years. Don joined the IL National Guard, and was later called to active duty during the Korean War in 1952-1953 where he achieved the rank of Corporal in the Army. He was wounded and awarded the Bronze Star Metal for valor on the battlefield. Don placed faith and family first. He was a man of integrity, kind and quiet, who was always willing to lend a helping hand and sound advice to friends, neighbors and family members. He enjoyed classic movies, music from the golden age of Hollywood, and sharing quality time with his brother, Jim, enjoying lunch and a beer or two while listening to music and watching movies. They met weekly for over 50 years enjoying each other’s company. When his wife, Bernice’s age advanced and she needed assistance with care, Don was able to live independently and help care for her until her death. His love and devotion was a true testament to their marriage. He missed Bernice a great deal after he death, and now he is with her again.

A celebration of Life Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 23, 2025 from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm with a “Sharing of Memories” at 6:30 pm at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL 60435.

The visitation continues at Tezak’s on Friday, October 24, 2025 at 9:00 am, proceeding to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 416 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am. We will then proceed to Donald’s final resting place at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, 1500 N. Raynor Ave, Joliet for a graveside committal service immediately following the close of Mass.