Theodore Ward Walker

In loving memory, we celebrate the life of Theodore (Ted) Ward Walker, resident of Auburndale, Fl, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, whose remarkable journey ended peacefully on April 9, 2026, at the age of 83. Ted passed away surrounded by the love and comfort of his cherished wife, Mary Katherine (Kathie) McIlree, and his beloved family. Born on December 31, 1942, in Muncie, Indiana and raised on a farm in Daleville, Indiana, Ted's life was one filled with love, adventure, and unwavering dedication.

Ted was the son of the late William (Bill) and Elizabeth (Liz) Walker. He was predeceased by his youngest brother, Thomas (Tom) Walker, sister-in-law Judy Walker (Sam), and daughter-in-law Beth Ann Walker (Dale).

His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind: his devoted wife of 65 years, Kathie Walker; his sons, Brian Patrick Walker, David Matthew Walker, and Dale Ward Walker; daughters-in-laws; Donna Marie Walker, Michele Ann Walker, and Jean Ann Mason, six grandchildren (Brianna, Brendan, David Ward, Nicholas, Kathryn and Madison Elizabeth) and nine great-grandchildren (Charlie, Will, Libby, Aurora, Ophelia, Quinn, Sutton, Rowan and Greyson), whose lives he touched with boundless love and wisdom.

Ted's surviving family also includes his brother, Samuel Leroy Walker, and sister-in-law Rita Walker; brother Roland (Rol) Eugene Walker and partner Judy St. John; sister Lora Jane Berger and brother-in-law Gary Berger; sister-in-law Andi Walker, spouse of the late Tom Walker; and many other cherished family members, including brother-in-law James Rex McIlree, sister-in-law Sandy McIlree, brother-in-law Carl Mark Musick, sister-in-law Carla Musick, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

A proud graduate of Yorktown High School in Indiana, Class of 1960, Ted's career reflected his industrious spirit and leadership. He began his professional journey at Brady Tank in Muncie, Indiana, before advancing to Vice President at Cook Well Screen Company in Cincinnati, Ohio. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to become a founding partner and the President/CEO of Global Drilling Suppliers, a company that became a testament to his vision and hard work. He also partnered in OCI Engineering and Fabrication Company, where he continued to make an impact until his well-deserved retirement.

Ted's life was enriched by his passions, which included avid reading and a shared love of world travel with Kathie. They explored the wonders of the United States, savoring the beauty of the Southwest, the mountains, and national parks, while also embarking on international adventures to Italy, Greece, the Middle East, and Asia. Ted and Kathie cherished every moment spent fly fishing in Idaho and snowmobiling in the pristine landscapes of Yellowstone.

A man of quick wit and dry humor, Ted was a mentor and role model to many. While not overtly demonstrative, he expressed his love through thoughtful discussions, life experiences, and guidance. His faith was a quiet, but steady foundation through his life and he often had quiet dialogues with Jesus to center himself. His devotion to Kathie, their sons, and their families was evident in every aspect of his life. Ted relished the friendships formed through his work, church communities at Harrison United Methodist and Miami Whitewater United Methodist, first United Methodist of Lake Alfred, FL and his treasured Yorktown High School classmates.

Visitation will be held at Brater Winter Funeral Home, 201 S. Vine St, Harrison, OH on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 4:00 PM until the time of the funeral service at 6:00 PM.

Additional services will be held in Daleville, IN at Ballard and Sons Funeral Home, 8212 South Walnut Street, Daleville, IN 47324 on Saturday, April 18, 2026. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM until the time of the funeral service at 1:00 PM. Burial to follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Habitat for Humanity, an organization close to Ted's heart. A funeral home representative will be available to assist you with your donation at the time of the service.

The Walker family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of the Otterbein Community and Otterbein Hospice team in Lebanon, Ohio, as well as the Oncology teams at UC North West Chester, the Watson Clinic of Lakeland, Florida, for their exceptional care and support during Ted's courageous battle with Mesothelioma.

Ted Walker's legacy is one of love, strength, and resilience. His memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.