John Patrick “Pat” Walker, 78, of West Newton, passed away peacefully, Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023, at Arden Courts of Monroeville, with his family by his side. He was born Oct. 7, 1944, in Greensburg, the son of the late John Ward Walker and Lucille (Fmura) Walker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Erin Marie Walker, in 1975; and his sister, Nancy Walker. Pat was an Army veteran, having served five years as a private first class in the National Guard. He was a member of the American Legion Post 472 in Manor and was a member of Seven Dolors Church in Yukon. Prior to his retirement, Pat was senior vice president of corporate operations for Master-Lee Energy Services Corp. and previously worked for Westinghouse Corp. as a manager in the nuclear division. He enjoyed the outdoors, riding his tractor and gardening; he was known for his delicious, home-grown sweet corn. Pat was an incredible problem solver and was able to repair almost anything with whatever tools were available; he was affectionately known as the “Tire Man,” “Tarp Man,” or “Mr. Jerry-rig” by his family for his creative solutions over the years. He loved listening to music and was always tapping along to a song he enjoyed, especially Tommy Makem, Caribbean music and Paul Simon. An avid baseball player in his youth and an avid golfer for many years, Pat passionately supported all of the Pittsburgh sports teams. He enjoyed traveling, for work and especially with his family, making it to 17 countries and 46 states. Pat was a true gentleman, and his honesty and respect for others were appreciated by everyone who knew him. He was a great storyteller and had an infectious laugh. He was also truly generous, both with his money and his time, and always wanted to take care of everyone around him. Pat is survived by his beloved wife of 51 years, Sharon A. “Sherry” (German) Walker; his two children, Monica (Jim) Payne and John Patrick (Marcie) Walker Jr., both of Pittsburgh; three brothers, Terry (Jean) Walker, of Florida, Geary (Cheryl) Walker, of Export, and Kevin (Dianne) Walker, of Greensburg; two sisters, Maureen (Bernie) Amadio, of North Huntingdon, and Peg (John) Yankes, of North Huntingdon; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Pat will be dearly missed by his family, friends and neighbors. The family would like to thank the staff at Arden Courts of Monroeville and Promedica Hospice for all of their compassionate care. Friends will be received from 9 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, at the JOSEPH W. NICKELS FUNERAL HOME INC., 404 Sewickley Ave., Herminie, PA 15637. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Seven Dolors Church in Yukon with Father Vincent Yee Concepcion as celebrant. To send online condolences, please visit www.nickelsfuneralhomeinc.com. Interment will follow in West Newton Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund through the link below, in memory of Pat.