Robert F. Walker, 96, of Northvale, passed away on Monday, January 15, 2024.
Robert was the beloved husband of the late Claire Walker for more than 60 years. He was the cherished father of Karen Nolan of Fairport, NY, Wendy Mattner and husband Jeff of Martinsville, IN, Jeff Walker and wife Diane of Harrington Park and Jacqueline Walker of Park Ridge. Proud grandfather of Melissa (Brock), Allyson (Ben), Kimberly (Joseph), Claudia (Andrew), Michele (Al), C.J., Emily and Brian and great-grandfather of Brogan, Elliot, Kinlee, Adrienne, Sydney, Chloe, Ainsley, Judah, Asher, Audrey, Richard and Adelaide. He was predeceased by his brothers Jack, Herman (‘Buddy’) and Milton and his son-in-law, Richard Nolan.
Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was enamored with “his Claire” until her passing in 2017, and he cherished his family. Bob and Claire enjoyed many adventures with friends and family; visiting interesting places both near and far. Overall, Bob set an example, always living his life with humility, contentment and joy.
Bob was a WWII Veteran of the US Navy and later served with the US Air Force. He retired from the NJ Department of Transportation Bridge Division where he worked as an engineer for many years. In his younger years, he worked on the Tappan Zee Bridge, spanning the Hudson River from Nyack, where he lived as a young boy.
Bob enjoyed working hard and helping others. He was a “man’s man”, and was often found working on cars, motors and fixing just about anything that needed fixing. He was supportive and helpful in the community, lending a hand with home repairs, snow blowing driveways, driving the van for the Northvale Senior Center and working on church events and improvements at the Tappan Reformed Church.
Visiting hours are Saturday, January 20, 2024 from 11 am – 1 pm at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Ave, Northvale. A Funeral Service will be held at 1 pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Villa Marie Claire Hospice, in Saddle River, N.J. www.villamarieclaire.org
Dear Uncle Bob, you were an inspiration to me and so many others. How we have missed you the last few years. Visiting you and Aunt Claire was an annual treat as we grew up. We cherish the memories. I think a game of pool in your memory is called for.
May God Bless you and the entire family. Rest in peace. Your nephew Steve.
It is with great sadness that you have passed on, Uncle Bob; We have some wonderful memories of gatherings at your home and will miss your lightheartedness and the love and kindness you showed to us and to your family. You and Aunt Claire were an inspiration. I am sure your children must feel how fortunate they were to have you and Aunt Claire for so long. I know in my heart of hearts you are with her now. Thank you for the years and bless your family. These are not easy times but somehow one manages to get through them.
Your loving niece, June, Lori and Family and in remembrance, Bernie, David and Bill
I have such fond memories of Bob and Claire. They visited our farm for a family dinner many years ago. They were always so much fun to be with. Bob would tell us oh his skiing plans and other adventures. Claire would get us all laughing. I have such fond memories of those times and was glad to be part of it.
They are both missed.
Anne Vinyard
A fine man and one of my best friends!!!
Ernie Cassis
Thinking of our childhood friends – Karen, Wendy, Jeff, and Jackie – – and sending you all wishes of comfort. “Mr. Walker” was the quintessential neighbor … always friendly, supportive, aware, approachable … Although he has passed in this sense, in another sense he lives on clearly in my memories of those childhood days as a permanent fixture — always working on or washing down his cars, busy in one way or another, but a dependable and friendly neighbor always.
Rest in peace, Mr. Walker.