Joseph Patrick Walker

Joseph Patrick Walker, 72, of Union Pier, MI died at his home on Friday, September 23, 2011. Arrangements have been entrusted with Sommerfeld Chapel of New Buffalo, MI.Joseph was born March 21, 1939 in Brooklyn, New York to Frank and Mary (Dukes) Walker. He served his country in the United States Marine Corps (Reserve). Joseph married Clare Margaret McMahon on April 28, 1962, in Brooklyn, NY.Joseph had a wide and varied corporate career. He was a corporate lending officer, a manufacturer’s representative. He retired in 2001 after serving as CEO and Chairman of CTS Corporation for 15 years.Joseph is survived by his wife, Clare; his daughters, Jeanne (Warren) Stahmer of Chicago, IL, and Kathryn Walker of Denver, CO; sons, Francis (Alissa) Walker of Chicago, IL, Joseph (Laura) Walker of Des Plaines, IL and Daniel (Jennifer) Walker of Los Altos, CA; six grandchildren, Kevin Stahmer, Allison Stahmer, Charlotte Walker, Elise Walker, Thomas Walker and Julia Walker; sisters, Mary Murphy of Grand Beach, MI and Ann Higgins of Wilmette, IL; and a brother, William Walker of Scottsdale, AZ. He is preceded in death by his parents-Francis and Mary. Joseph was passionate about his beloved family, which included his Champion Rottweiler’s Woody, Coal, Chase and Cara. He was generous with his time as an advocate for many causes.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, Sept. 26, 11:00am at St. Mary of the Lake Church in New Buffalo, with Reverend Craig Lusk officiating. Visitation is on Sunday from 2:00-6:00pm, with a Scripture Service at 6:00pm, at the Sommerfeld Chapel of New Buffalo. Final resting place will be at Pine Grove Cemetery in New Buffalo. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary of the Lake Church. Friends wishing to leave a message of condolence may do so at www.sommerfeldchapel.com