Paul L. Walker, 74, of Galesburg, Illinois passed away at 2:54 pm on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at the OSF Richard L. Owen Hospice Home after suffering from a stroke.
He was born on a colorful fall day, October 11, 1950, in Galesburg, the son of James B. “Brownie” and Marjorie E. (Linn) Walker. He married Diane L. Mahnesmith and together they had a son, Steven and later a grandson, Drake Walker. They survive.
Also surviving Paul is his soulmate of 26 years, Pat Bodenhamer and her family; his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Tim and Leigh Mahnesmith of Deatsville, Alabama and sister-in-law, Elizabeth “Betty” Walker of Henderson, Illinois; his two nephews, Jimmy (Jill) Walker and Cody Walker both of Oneida, Illinois and his niece, Michele (Jeff) Malone of East Galesburg. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, Diane, his brother, James “Jim” W. Walker, brother-in-law, Steve Mahnesmith and his cousin, Billy Walker.
Paul was raised in Galesburg, graduating from Galesburg High School in 1969. He worked for Galesburg School District #205 as a custodian for over 21 years, retiring in 2016. Paul was an avid outdoorsman and loved his catfishing trips to Wisconsin and never missed Illinois firearm deer season. He enjoyed following the New York Yankees, the Green Bay Packers and hanging out with his group of buddies.
Paul’s wishes were to be cremated. A Celebration of Paul’s Life will be held at a later date at Harley’s Pub. Memorials may be made to the Galesburg Youth Fishing Derby. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel. Online condolences may be offered at www.h-p-w.com.
