Donald “Ray” Walker of Umatilla passed away in Umatilla on May 27, 2025 at the age of 90.
He was born on Dec. 7, 1934 in Lincoln, Idaho to George and May Eggleston Walker.
Ray grew up and received his education in Idaho Falls, Idaho. After high school he began working doing line work construction, which took him throughout the western United States. In the late 1950s he went to lineman school and began his career as a lineman. He worked as a lineman in Redmond, Tillamook and Grass Valley. In 1970 he took a job in Hermiston with the Umatilla Electric Cooperative. He worked as a lineman with Umatilla Electric for 27 years until retiring in 1997.
Ray enjoyed fishing, camping, traveling and spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.
Ray married Kay Van Antwerp on Feb. 28, 1956 in Goldendale, Wash. From this union three children were born: Deby, Cindy and Julie. Kay preceded him in death on Dec. 3, 1997.
Ray later married Sharron McVane on April 6, 2000 in Arlington.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sharron; three children, Deby (Clint) Calkins, Cindy (Carol Bjork) Walker and Julie (Gary) Mercer; five stepchildren, Robbie (Tammy) McVane, Kim Martin, John Martin, Matthew (Teresa) McVane and Mark (Joeylea) McVane; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members.
Ray was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; and three sisters.
A graveside service at Ammon Cemetery in Ammon, Idaho will be announced at a later time.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
