Obituary of Norris Woodruff Walker
After a lifetime of community service, Norris Woodruff Walker peacefully passed away in his home surrounded by his loved ones on January 27, 2024. Norris is now reunited with his beloved wife Marilyn and cherished daughter Jennifer.
Norris is survived by daughters Elizabeth (Steven) Casper, Sheila (Robert) Bonapace and predeceased by his wife Marilyn I. Walker (2015), daughter Jennifer Anne Walker (2006), brothers John (2016) and David (1943), parents John (1986) and Nora (2004). Proud grandfather of Kristen (Jerry) Davidse and David (Kelley) Casper; R. Spencer Bonapace (Amanda) and Brittany Bonapace; Christopher (Olivia), Heather, Luke (Em) Robinson and Tanya (Ryan) Burggren. Blessed with six great grandchildren, Jake and Emma Davidse; Riley, Ellie and Casey Casper and Charlie Bonapace.
Norris was a 4th generation co-owner of Walker Industries. Norris was extremely proud of the family business and the opportunity it provided him to work in vibrant communities.
After his retirement in 2001 he continued his work supporting and giving back to those communities. Outside of work, Norris was an avid skier and hit the slopes in his 80th year. In 2007 he was up on water skis in Temagami ON. He enjoyed his cabin on Rock Lake in Algonquin Park which he had a hand building. Many hours were spent canoeing in his beloved Peterborough canoe. During his life as an outdoor enthusiast, Norris enjoyed sailing, tennis and golf. He also enjoyed boating on lake Erie with his family which was very dear to him. He loved following everyones accomplishments and life events and as the family historian he kept albums memorializing all those events.
Norris was an avid musician. He enjoyed playing a guitar around a campfire, singing in Chorus Niagara, Knox choir and faithfully attending Niagara Symphony. He believed that music enriches our lives and inspires creativity. Norris was strongly committed to the value and benefits of music believing that music brings love and joy into our lives.
Norris was a man of few words but when he spoke those words had impact and meaning. Using both his words and actions Norris was a significant contributor to many organizations in Niagara. Norris’s contributions include support for the Walker Family Cancer Centre, Brock University, Niagara College, Bethlehem Housing, Hotel Dieu Shaver Hospital, Shaw Festival, Wellspring Niagara, Pathstone Mental Health, United Way and many others. In 2001 Norris was honored with Rotary’s highest Honor the Paul Harris Fellowship. In 2003, Norris received the Queens Golden Jubilee Commemorative Medal for service to community and country. In 2001 he received an honorary doctorate degree from Brock University for his outstanding contribution to public service. Norris throughout his life has received numerous other community awards. He also served his community by participating on numerous boards including Chair of the Brock Board of Trustees, Honorary Campaign Chair for Genesis Court Bethlehem Project, Empty Bowls. Chorus Niagara and the Niagara Community Foundation.
Norris was a member of other community and national organizations such as Gyro Club, Rotary Club and Probus. He enjoyed the social and community engagement and fun they provided.
Norris celebrated his faith at Knox Presbyterian church in St. Catharines where he joyfully sang in the choir. A private family service was held at Knox Church, followed by a Burial at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
A special thank you to Norris’s amazing care team including Brittany, Blair and Alex for their thoughtfulness and compassion. Thank you to his palliative team led by Dr. Scher and nurses Melissa and Jan for their excellent care and respect. Norris was entrusted to his friend George Darte at Darte funeral home.
Norris Woodruff Walker; a hard working, fun, family man, friend, mentor, philanthropist and so much more. A man who lived life to its fullest. A light that will remain in our hearts forever.
In keeping with Norris’s philanthropic philosophy, memorial contributions can be made to the Marilyn and Norris Walker Fund (M and N) at the Niagara Community Foundation 8 Church St., St. Catharines ON L2R 3B3.
