1955-2020 ~ We are very saddened to announce the sudden passing of Stewart Ralph Walker of Red Deer, Alberta on Thursday, October 1, 2020 at the age of 65 years.
Stewart was born in Castor, Alberta in 1955. A few months later, the family moved to Red Deer where Stewart spent his formative years. He attended West Park Elementary School, West Park Junior High School, and graduated from LTCHS.
Stewart loved sports, especially hockey and golf. As a young boy he spent countless hours at the West Park rink, developing his hockey skills and building lifelong friendships, too. He played his junior hockey for the Weyburn Redwings, Flin Flon Bombers, El Paso Raiders and Minot Raiders.
In 1977, he attended the University of Saskatchewan on a 4 year Hockey Canada Scholarship, where he became a noted defenceman for the Huskies. In 2013, he received the honor of being one of only six players selected for the Huskies All Star team, representing the 1970 -1979 decade.
During the off season, Stewart returned home to Red Deer and worked long hours at CP Rail to supplement his university studies. He loved riding those rails! In 1980, Stewart relocated to Winnipeg where he managed an A & A Record Store. He had many stories to share of famous artists who visited the store for record signings. Stewart knew music from that decade inside and out.
A few years later, he began his 40 year career in real estate, getting his start with Kilkenny Realty in Winnipeg. He later opened and grew a very successful Sutton Group franchise. In 2000, he sold the business, moved back to Red Deer, and continued his career in real estate until his passing.
Stewart was fun-loving and often had his friends and family in stitches with stories of his life adventures. He was a diehard U of S Huskie and Winnipeg Jets hockey fan. He loved playing practical jokes, hunting, camping, rafting, golfing, house-boating, playing cards and spending time with family and friends.
He was a loving son, brother and uncle who will be dearly missed by his family. He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Walker of Red Deer; brother, Russ (Shelley) Walker of Saskatoon; sisters, Louise (Ron) Wagner of Saskatoon and Karen (Bryce) Wiltse of Red Deer; nieces and nephews, Holly (Jason) Lindberg, Jaclyn Walker (Robin Orosz), Troy (Natasha) Caverly, Bonnie (Ken) Dahl, Lorie (Davin) Budreau, Garnett Wiltse (Megan Collier), Gabrielle Wiltse (Juraj Betak); great nieces and nephews, Cohen, Hayden, Jasmine, Cedar, Traiya, Trinity, Martin, Rosie, and Lachlan, as well as many extended family members and friends. He was predeceased by his father, John Walker, in 2002.
A private graveside service was held at the Alto Reste Cemetery, Red Deer, Alberta. If desired, Memorial Donations in Stewart's honor may be made to the charity of your choice.
Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.arbormemorial.ca
Red Deer Funeral Home