Richard Edwin Walker Sr.

Richard Edwin Walker Sr., August 10, 1935 to September 4, 2025 age 90 of Highland Township. Beloved Husband of Lillian. Loving Father of Eileen (Michael) Z, Richard Jr. (Denise) W, Karen (George) M, David (Jessi H) W and Donna (Scott) L. Dear Grandfather of Jaclyn (Marc) M, Danielle (Todd) L, Richard W III, Mallory (Andrew) A, Kylie M, Lexi M, Mya L and David L. Loving Great Grandfather of Jack, Ryan, Luci and Olive. Brother to the Late Robert Walker. Dear Son of the Late Columbus and Isabella Walker. Richard was born in Detroit and had many fond memories from his childhood and young adulthood in the city. He met his wife Lillian in Detroit and after they married, they lived there for a number of years before moving several times, eventually settling in Highland Township. Richard worked in sales and marketing for Curtis Circulation Company for the bulk of his career. He was highly regarded in his field, receiving numerous awards and recognition. However, the absolute highlight of his life was always his family. He and Lillian shared a love story spanning 68+ years of marriage. They welcomed five children into the world and filled their lives with time spent together on vacations, holidays, gatherings with friends and just being together. One of his favorite pastimes was spending time boating with family and friends (both in Michigan and Florida), creating many wonderful memories. He carried his faith with him in a quiet but strong manner. He instilled in all of his children a strong moral code and work ethic and he lived it out in his own life. One of his first jobs was cleaning seats at Tiger Stadium (Briggs Stadium) - his pay consisted of tips from satisfied patrons for a job well done. He and Lillian were fortunate to have been able to enjoy 25+ years of retirement, spent with family, travel to Florida and other hobbies such as reading, trivia and working out at their local fitness center. Up until a few weeks ago, Richard walked 1-2 miles every day and was always pleased when people told him he didn’t look a day over 70! (He really didn’t). He was an incredible history and movie buff and also a master at trivia. Family and friends alike were always impressed and entertained with his knowledge and ability to tell a good story. He was a lifelong Lions fan and cheered them on through good times and bad. He was always hopeful that they’d make it all the way to a Super Bowl win. When that happens he’ll be cheering them on from Heaven. One of Richard’s passions after retirement was serving others. For many years, he and Lillian delivered Meals on Wheels to “the old folks”. He also was an usher at St. Mary’s in Milford for 40+ years, earning the recognition of being the longest serving usher ever at the church. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus through the church and regularly volunteered at events such as pancake breakfasts, the annual fair and more. Additionally, he was a volunteer with his local fire department in Florida for many years, and was recognized for his service. Both in Michigan and Florida he was a member of CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), helping out when needed in times of emergency. He always had a soft spot in his heart for the Salvation Army, since they provided after school activities when he was a boy, and strong role models that helped shape who he was. In addition to supporting the Salvation Army financially, he could also be found ringing a bell at the red kettle every holiday season. He often told people that he was the luckiest man in the world - a beautiful wife, five fantastic kids and all of his grandkids. As many of his friends and family knew, he was a huge fan of Frank Sinatra. One of his favorite songs was My Way, which perfectly sums up a life well lived: “And now, the end is near and so I face the final curtain. My friend, I’ll say it clear, I’ll state my case of which I’m certain. I’ve lived a life that’s full, I traveled each and every highway. And more, much more than this, I did it my way.” Our hearts are broken but we also rejoice in knowing that he is now in the presence of the Lord. Friends and family will gather Friday, September 12th 10:30 AM until the 11 AM Funeral Mass at St. Mary Our Lady of the Snows, 1955 E. Commerce Street, Milford, MI 48381, with a luncheon to follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, please donate in memory of Richard to the Salvation Army Great Lakes using the following link: https://donate.sagreatlakes.org To share a memory, please use the Share a Memory tab on this web page.

Richard Edwin Walker Sr.

August 10, 1935 - September 4, 2025