John Walker

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. John Walker, beloved husband, father, brother, and musician, who left this world on Nov. 11, 2024, due to complications with ALS.
Born on Nov. 18, 1955, in Walnut Creek, CA, Johns journey through life was marked by a passion for music, love for his family, and a kindness that inspired many.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dorothy and William Walker, and his beloved son, Tristan.
He is survived by his wife, Leah, whom he married on June 2, 2012; his son Dorian; daughter Rachel; stepson Patrick; brother David; sister Katie Fleming; and several cousins.
Dr. Walker completed a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the University of Colorado at Boulder, a Master of Music from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and a Bachelor of Music from the University of California, Santa Barbara. He was also a piano teacher with Frances Clark and Louise Goss at the New School for Music Study in New Jersey.
John served as the piano professor at South Dakota State University from 2000-2019, and held the position of principal keyboardist for both the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra and the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra. In 2020, he moved with his wife and daughter to Passau, Germany, where he was a piano instructor and accompanist for the Musikakademie Passau. Additionally, he was a composer and arranger, leaving a lasting musical legacy.
Beyond music, John enjoyed woodworking, building model airplanes, and traveling.
In 2021, he received the devastating diagnosis of ALS. His battle with the disease was courageous and dignified, and he faced his illness with the same grace he demonstrated throughout his life. His family was a constant source of strength for him, and he remained a beacon of love and resilience until the very end.
John will be remembered for his music, easy-going nature, kindness, and role as an inspirational teacher who left an indelible mark on many. A memorial service to celebrate Johns life will be held on Nov. 22, at 18:00 in Passau, Germany. A second memorial service is planned for the spring of 2025 in South Dakota, with details to be provided later.