Sam Wayne Walker, 85, of Astoria died Jan. 15, 2024, at Mason District Hospital in Havana.
He was born Sept. 25, 1938, in Benton, a son of Albert and Virginia Grimes Walker.
Surviving are one daughter, Valerie (and Bill) Strayer; one daughter-in-law, Debi Walker; one brother, David Luke (and Nikki) Walker; his ex-wife, Brenda Walker; and four grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by one son, David Walker; and one sister, Nicki Joan.
He worked for the State of Illinois in the Department of Public Health for many years. Before that, he was the principal of Astoria High School in Astoria.
Cremation rites have been accorded with Hurley Funeral Home in Havana. A burial of his cremated remains will take place at a later date at the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton.
Memorials in his name may be made to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in honor of his love of Anderson Lake and the time he and his family spent there. Donations may be made online at the IDNR website or physical donations may be sent to Office of Grant Management and Assistance, Illinois Wildlife Preservation Fund, One Natural Resources Way, Springfield, IL 62702-1271.
Visit hurleyfh.com to view his online obituary and share memories and condolences with his family.
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