A highly successful businessman and life-long resident of Bigler died Friday. Ray Walker was 105 years old.
After graduation from Penn State in 1935, Walker founded the Bradford Coal Company in his home town. In his obituary his family said Walker had a zest for life. Some of his accomplishments included:
As a youth, he was trained as a classical violinist at the Susquehanna College of Music in Clearfield.
He was the first drum major of the Clearfield High School Marching Band in 1928.
As a violinist he earned the position of concert maestro of the Penn State Philharmonic Orchestra in 1933.
Last Summer WTAJ News caught up with Walker at his home to talk about his amazing career, accomplishments and his devotion to family.
“I kept my nose to the grindstone,” said Ray Walker. “I never left an opportunity pass me by. I took a hold of all the opportunities that came my way.”
Remembering a Renaissance Man
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, June 17 at The First Presbyterian Church, Clearfield. Burial will be in the Crown Crest Memorial Park, Hyde.
Friends will be received from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. and from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, June 15-16 and from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Saturday, June 17 at The First Presbyterian Church, Clearfield.
The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to The Bigler YMCA., 61 Walker Rd., Bigler, PA 16825 or the Bucktail Council, Boy Scouts of America, 209 First Ave., DuBois, PA 15801.
The Kevin A. Beardsley Funeral Home, Clearfield, is in charge of arrangements.
To leave an online condolence, visit www.beardsleyfuneralhome.com.
