Thomas T Walker (Colonel) Remembrance

Born May 30, 1938, in Aberdeen, Wash., Tom arrived in Anchorage in 1942 with his father, Tom Walker II, a well-known Bush pilot, accountant and treasurer for Gov. William Egan, and his mother, Agnes Walker Burns, who owned a beauty school and operated multiple beauty shops throughout Anchorage.

Tom graduated from Anchorage High School in 1956 and went on to receive his bachelor's degree in aeronautics at Arizona State University. He later earned his master's degree in international relations.

Upon graduation from ASU, Tom entered the Air Force as an officer. During his military career he trained pilots, served two combat tours as a fighter pilot in Vietnam, was director of readiness for NATO, and served as base commander at Shemya Air Force Base in the Aleutian Islands.

He is one of two Americans to receive the Norwegian Military Gold Marksmanship Medal. Tom retired in 1989 as a full colonel. At that time he served as vice commander, Alaskan Air Command.

After retirement, Tom continued his pursuit of adrenaline by obtaining his pyrotechnical license and hosting fireworks shows for the residents of Big Lake and other communities around Alaska.

His family remembers him for "his charm, wit, style for pushing the limits, and ever loving heart." Tom traveled throughout the world during his military service, yet he felt most at home on Saddleback Island at Big Lake surrounded by family members and friends. He was an avid bridge player, enjoyed flying and loved having visitors. In addition to his well-told stories of Alaska's early days, Tom recited many a Robert Service ballad to the delight of his audience.

Tom is survived by his children, Vicki Hewitt (Jeff) of Wasilla, Thomas Walker IV (Nancy) of Littleton, Colo., and Gabrielle Clark (Mike) of Anchorage; sister, Toby Ingram; five grandchildren; one great-grandchild; four nieces; one nephew; and many dear friends.

Died peacefully from lung cancer on Nov. 5, 2007, at Providence Alaska Medical Center.

Category:

People & Blogs

Tags:

• remembrance
• alaska
• big lake
• pilots
• air force
• fireworks

[moccsin]

I was a Security Specialist station at Shemya under Col. Walkers command. It was a pleasure to serve with him because he always treated you fairly and with respect. He always had a smile on his face and seemed to enjoy life and that made they duty there easier.I am saddened to hear of his passing. God Bless.

[theblk170]

my name is thomas walker! awsome

[enjoythewildUSA]

I stumbled on the tribute to the Colonel. Seems like a great man, a great patriot, a lucky guy who had a great family and life.

[MisterJSC]

What a wonderful way to remember a loved one. I'm 63, and an Air Force Vet. Watching his life through pictures makes me value my family all the more.

[kdc0000]

RIP Col. Walkers

[XD12CL]

rest in peace