Robert William Walker

Robert William Walker was born on July 10th, 1944, in East Syracuse, New York, to Elizabeth Brady and William Walker. He passed away peacefully on May 26th, 2025, in Liverpool, New York, at the age of 80 years. Mr. Walker proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years. For 36 years, he dedicated his skill and work ethic as an Operating Engineer at Onondaga County’s Department of Facilities Management, tirelessly ensuring that the D.H.&C plant operated at its best. His service to his community extended beyond his profession. A devoted Republican Committee Person in the 5th Ward’s 12th District and President of the Eastwood Republican Club, he worked with conviction and a booming voice, never afraid to speak his mind or champion a cause he believed in. He also served on the board of directors for the local chapters of the Adirondack Mountain Club and the Iroquois Chapter of Trout Unlimited. His adventurous spirit found expression as president of the State’s Mohawk Valley Sled Dog Club. Yet perhaps most dear to him was his passion for photography—a pursuit he transformed into an art and a calling. As a member of the National Press Photographers Association and a Canon Professional Services member, he captured the world’s beauty with an unerring eye for detail, a trait that often carried over to family life in both endearing and memorable ways. His grandsons—Louis, Matthew, and Michael—recall with fond laughter the summer’s day he had them cleaning his beloved Tahoe, “The Beast,” three times over, each pass of the sponge driven by his loving, almost comical dedication to perfection. Robert was beloved by his family, known for his loud spirit and unwavering sense of what was right. He lived by example, teaching that character is found in the choices we make. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Rosemary Clark Walker; three sons: Sean and his wife Julie Ann of South Carolina, Craig and his partner Karen Russo of Baldwinsville, New York, and Daniel and his partner Melissa O’Brien of Mattydale, New York. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Louis, Michael, Matthew, Kendall, Emma, Destan, Elise, Allison, and Alexis. Along with several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his three brothers and his sister: Richard of Florida, Gregory of North Chittenango, New York, Joseph Brady of Liverpool, New York and Barbara Brady of East Syracuse, New York. Robert’s memory will be honored in the quiet glow of a photograph, in the laughter shared around family tables, and the family he began with his beloved wife. Calling hours will be Friday, May 30th from 4 to 7 pm at Fergerson Funeral Home, 215 South Main Street, North Syracuse followed by services. Donations may be made to Honor Flight or to NAVAC. “God bless you all, may we not weep nor cry but rejoice on our passings and join together once more in heaven. It is not what we take with us but what we have left behind that we will be remembered for. Being a husband and dad the greatest gift I have ever had.” Love, Bob

Tributes

Robert William Walker

May 26, 2025