Roll Call Tribute

Charles Leroy "Charlie" Walker 

July 2, 1919 - September 20, 2024 

Charles Leroy “Charlie” Walker passed away at his home in San Antonio, Texas on September 20th, 2024 at the age of 105.

Charlie was born in Saint Joseph, Missouri in July of 1919. He was the youngest of four children. The family moved to Wichita Falls, then Smithville, before settling in Denison, Texas. Charlie graduated from high school in 1936. He entered Texas A&M University in the fall of 1937. While considered Class of ’41, Charlie had to work his own way through school which pushed his graduation date to 1942. He received his degree in Civil Engineering. As an ROTC cadet, he earned the rank of Second Lieutenant. Upon graduation he began training in artillery before joining the European theatre in World War II. Charlie was involved in the defense of Paris, France and the Battle of the Bulge. For his efforts during the war and for his leadership, he was awarded the Bronze Star. Charlie returned from the war in late 1946 and served in the Army Reserves, from which he eventually retired at the rank of Major.

It was during Charlie's senior year at Texas A&M that a blind date was arranged for him with a student at Sam Houston State College. Her name was Marian Weiting, from Palestine, Texas. The two were married in Bremerton, Washington, where Charlie was stationed at the time, in November of 1942.

After retiring from the Army, Charlie began his career with the Texas State Highway Department in 1946 with stints in Sherman, Emory and finally settling in Paris, Texas. In 1962 he resigned from the highway department. At this time he entered into the construction business with Harrison and Walker Contractors. Their work included the construction of custom homes, subdivisions and land developments, as well as the construction of schools, hospitals and industrial facilities.

Charlie was a respected businessman and community leader in his hometown of Paris. He served on the City Council before being elected as mayor of the city. He took a few years off from the construction business to serve as Paris's City Manager where he was instrumental in making significant improvements to the city's streets and infrastructure. Upon accomplishing those goals, he returned to the construction business until his retirement. Charlie and Marian moved to San Antonio in 2001 to be close to family.

Charlie was an avid golfer much of his life, recording 4 hole-in-ones! He won his age bracket in the last tournament in which he participated, at the age of 92. He enjoyed bridge and was an excellent player, playing until about 2 months ago. He was also Texas A&M’s #1 fan, often introducing himself as “Charlie Walker, Class of ’41.” On July 2nd of this year, he officially became the oldest living Aggie.

Charlie’s family and faith were what he treasured most. He loved to be caught up on all the activities of his 4 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, and 5 great-great grandchildren. He was an active church member most of his life and enjoyed his involvement in Bible studies, a trip to Isarael at age 93 and was a greeter at Sunday services as long as he was able. Over the last year, he spent much of his time having the Bible read to him.

Charlie was preceded in death by his wife, Marian, after 69 years of marriage. He is survived by his two children and their spouses: Daughter, Charlotte, and her husband Larry Franklin of San Antonio, Texas; Son, Bob Walker, and his wife Tricia of Neptune Beach, Florida.

VISITATION: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2024, 10:00 - 11:00 AM PORTER LORING MORTUARY NORTH

FUNERAL SERVICE: FRIDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2024, 11:00 AM PORTER LORING MORTUARY NORTH, 2102 NORTH LOOP 1604 EAST, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78232. 

Interment to follow at Holy Cross.

In Lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.