Walter Carl Bjorkman, 85, of Galesburg, passed away at 2:20 p.m. on Tuesday, August 2, 2022 at his home, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was born July 12, 1937 in Galesburg, the son of Howard Valdemar and Eileen Jeanette (Oliver) Bjorkman. Wally graduated from Galesburg High School in 1956. In his younger years, he worked at the Orpheum Theatre and for the City of Galesburg Park Division. Then he worked for OMC Gale Products for many years. After they closed, Wally and his family moved to Iowa where he worked as a greeter at Walmart for around 12 years until his retirement in 2007. After he retired, they moved back to Illinois, living in Decatur until 2012 then moving back to his hometown with his family. Wally married Karen E. Burdette on March 26, 1970 at First Christian Church in Galesburg.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 52 years, Karen Bjorkman of Galesburg; his three daughters: Jeanette F. McLaughlin of Sioux Center, Iowa, Katherine L. (Chad) Seng and Linda S. Bjorkman both of Galesburg. Also surviving are ten grandchildren: Ariel, Justin, and Katelin McLaughlin, Paige and Brayden Davis, Olivia and Alex Seng, Tre (Alex), Jalisa, and Marcus (Paige Retter) Goodlow; and six great-granddaughters: Sofia and Tatiana Barajas, Ava, Alivia, Arin, and Audrey Goodlow; and one brother, Edward Bjorkman of Galesburg. He was preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Helen Louise Bjorkman.
Wally was a diehard and faithful Chicago Cubs fan. He enjoyed fishing at Lake Storey and bowling. Wally was a longtime member of First Christian Church. His greatest pride was being a dad and grandpa, he loved hanging with his girls. Wally was a wonderful and supportive man and it was an honor if you could call him your husband, your dad, your brother, or the best grandpa. His love of life, love of family and friendships will live in the hearts of those he leaves behind.
A private family visitation has taken place. Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the First Christian Church in Galesburg. Private family burial of Wally’s cremated remains will be at Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family, Hospice Compassus, or to First Christian Church. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
