Dean Howard Walker

Dean Howard Walker, 79, of Vermilion, died Sunday, June 9, 2013 at his home after a sudden illness. He was born December 5, 1933 in Lorain, and had been a life long Vermilion resident. Dean was a shipman on ore carriers in the Great Lakes before entering the service. He was a veteran of the US Army winning many marksmanship awards. Dean worked as a carpenter for several construction companies including, Towner and T.J. Hume Construction. He also owned and operated Walkers Bows Bend in Vermilion where he was a Martin Archery dealer and representative. He was a member of the Brownhelm Congregational UCC, where he was active in the choir. He also was a member of the Ohio Archer's Association where he was a three time indoor champion and national champion. He was also a member of the NRA, Sports Car Club of America, Bow Hunters Association, and AMVETS Post 22 Vermilion. He also enjoyed helping out with the Boy Scouts and was a youth archery instructor. He is survived by his sons, Mark D. Walker, Steven D. Walker, and Kelly (Gail) Walker all of Vermilion; 7 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; sister, Zona Bondar of Avon Lake; and brother, Darryl Walker of Vermilion. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marilyn "Lynn" (nee Whitcomb) Walker; parents, Howard Cree and Ruth Ella (nee Armstrong) Walker; daughter, Phylis E. Walker; and brother, Douglas Walker. The family will receive friends on Thursday, June13, 2013 from 2-4 and 7-9 pm at the Riddle Funeral Home, 5345 South Street Vermilion Ohio. Funeral services will be at the funeral home on Friday June 14, 2013 at 10:30 am. The Reverend Elizabeth Terrill will officiate. Interment will follow at Rugby Cemetery, Brownhelm Township where the Vermilion Veterans Council will conduct military honors. The family suggests memorial contributions to Brownhelm Congregational UCC Memorial Fund, 2144 North Ridge Road, Vermilion, OH 44089. Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.