Theodore Emmanuel Walker
Jan 7, 1936 - Oct 18, 2017
Theodore Emmanuel “Teddy” Walker died peacefully on Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at his residence, Sunrise of Arlington in Arlington, Virginia.
When Teddy died, the world lost one of its truly sweet souls. He was one of earth’s truly guileless people, utterly without malice, subterfuge, or hidden agenda. He was generous to a fault, always cheerful, and truly cared about people.
Teddy involved himself wholeheartedly, enthusiastically in his friendships, and in his avocational and vocational interests and responsibilities, and was by friends and family known for the generosity of his being. Teddy was born in Manhattan on January 7, 1936. His mother, Ruth Green Walker, was a court stenographer. His father, Albert Penn Walker, was a New York City police officer. He is survived by his sisters, Barbara and Alberta, his brother, Albert, and his nephew David – although he had a large extended family.
Growing up in Jamaica, Queens, Teddy and friends spent much playtime outdoors. There were backyards, a street with few cars, as well as vacant lots where seasonally there were tadpoles to find, pussy willows to collect, tiger lilies to see, snow paths to make. Indoors there were piano lessons to practice, ‘Richards Topical Encyclopedia’ volumes to explore. Teddy gave guidance and attention to his younger sister and to his brother based on his experience and views. He graduated from City College of New York (CCNY) where his major subjects were geology and geography and where he enjoyed activities of the camping club. Traveling cross-country and especially in New York State with Teddy was traveling with an illustrated textbook. He loved to test people on their knowledge of state and country capitals. Of note was Teddy’s abiding interest in trains and lifelong enjoyment of this with likeminded friends; in Scotch bagpipes, which he taught himself to play; in photography, especially New York State scenery; in baroque music, especially J.S. Bach and Jean Philippe Rameau; in the French language.
In the Army, he served as a cartographer in Hawaii, Virginia and California. After military service he worked with the U.S. Geological Survey in California. He then began his long career with MUNI San Francisco as a bus driver. There during his career he was recognized multiple times with awards/commendations and passengers’ letters of appreciation for the high quality of his work.
All who knew Teddy knew he loved trains, the out of doors and especially New York State. He is now off hiking in some endless national park with no need to worry about getting home, being late or catching the next train back to the city. We miss him and love him.
In keeping with his wishes, there will be no service, but it is suggested that those who wish to remember and honor him make a contribution to the Sierra Club or Southern Poverty Law Center. He will be interred in the woods in Stowe, Vermont, with a beautiful view of the Green Mountains.