Earl Paul Walker's Obituary
As the sun rose on Saturday September 21, 2024, it brought with it the light of Earl Paul Walker Sr. (or to any who knew him, just “Paul”). It was 5:23am when he passed away peacefully in bed at Grossmont Gardens Care Facility at the age of 86 after a long battle with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP).
Paul was born on August 1, 1938 to Earl Bretz and Nettie Muir in Moscow, Idaho under the surname Bretz. He was later adopted by his stepdad, Raymon Walker, who provided a warm and loving upbringing filled with memorable experiences. Paul lived in many places from Washington and California all the way to Guam, thanks to being part of a military family.
Anyone who met him for even one minute could tell you how genuine, caring, and kind this man was (and maybe just a little stubborn, too). Despite any hardship he faced, nothing ever stopped him from finding a bright side and keeping on with a smile and endless encouragement. Paul’s demeanor was as sweet as his tooth – you would never see him pass up a brownie (sometimes he’d skip dinner just to double up on dessert)!
Paul proudly enlisted in the US Navy when he was 18 years old, serving 23 years (15 years active duty). Boot camp in San Diego kicked off this career, the city later becoming his permanent home. He started off as a sonarman, was assigned to a helicopter squadron aboard several naval vessels such as the USS Philippine Sea and USS Ammen, specialized for many years as an aviation antisubmarine warfare technician, and retired as a Chief Petty Officer. After retirement, he continued working for the Navy with a civil engineering job at Naval Sea Support Center Pacific that granted him the opportunity to travel extensively. Totaling 42 years of diligent dedication to his country, he was a Navy man through and through and was often seen sporting his Navy hat up until the very end, with pride.
His dedication to others didn’t stop with retirement. Paul spent the majority of his life doing volunteer work with various organizations including the Braille Institute, Aces, Computers 2 SD Kids, and Meals on Wheels, delivering meals to local seniors. He loved making a difference in all areas of the community, as well as connecting with all types of people along the way.
Even while contributing so much of his time, care, and energy to his community, Paul never lost sight of those he loved. He took many trips over the years and loved sharing this time with his family. A frequented spot was their cabin on the Scott River – a place that accumulated countless stories and memories. He coached many of his kids’ sports teams through the years and supported them with every endeavor. When grandkids came into the picture, he became the world’s greatest grandpa! Weekends were spent entertaining them with tractor rides, camping trips, colorful pancakes, and so much more. He made it a priority to attend every sporting event possible and although the kids are grown now, to this day the memory of his face always in the stands still means the world to them.
Paul is survived by his wife of 50 years, Carol Elizabeth Walker, his 5 children, Paul Jr., Wendee, Pam, Mark, and Natalie, 10 grandkids, and 4 great grandchildren. He also leaves behind his brother, Ray, a large extended family, some lifelong friends, and 2 cats. He will be sorely missed by all as he reunites with his parents, brother Morris, and many beloved pets. We are beyond fortunate to have known such an all-around good man, and beyond honored to love someone who has left such a large, positive footprint in this world.
To sum up a life within just one page is an impossible task that feels like a cruel disservice to all that you are. It’s hard to think that we will not get to hear your stories from your own mouth anymore and that there are many that we’ll never know at all. We love you and miss you so much!
What’s your fondest memory of Earl?
What’s a lesson you learned from Earl?
Share a story where Earl's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Earl you’ll never forget.
How did Earl make you smile?
