Daniel Ross Walker

Daniel Ross Walker, known to friends and family as D.R., went home to his Lord on December 14, 2024. Born on November 19, 1946 in Lakeland, Florida, D.R. was adopted at 28 days old by his loving parents, Marvin and Marie Walker. The family became residents of Lake Wales when D.R. was 3 and he had many fond memories of growing up on the lakeshore.

D.R. is survived by his beloved family that he was incredibly proud of: daughter, Julie (Eric) Campbell of Bakersfield, CA; son, Joshua (Melissa) Walker of Fort Meade, FL; seven grandchildren, three great-grandchildren; the Sumner Family of Wauchula, FL; and his favorite cat, Cat. He impressed upon his family his great love of music, reading, camping, volunteer work, and visits to Bok Tower that they will continue to enjoy and pass on to others.

D.R. joined the first surveyor class that Polk Junior College, as it was known at the time, held in Winter Haven. As a student he won poetry, essay, and photography awards. There he discovered two of his passions: writing and drafting. His volunteer work mentoring and educating young men through the Boy Scouts of America became D.R.’s legacy. He dedicated 50 years of his life to the BSA and received the Silver Beaver Award for his distinguished service. D.R. was an active member of St. John Methodist Church and particularly enjoyed working the Treasure Trove Sale and helping with Operation Christmas Child each year. When he could no longer make the drive to Sebring, D.R. shared membership with First Methodist Church of Zolfo Springs and loved the brothers and sisters there. He faithfully attended St. John’s online services in his last year and took comfort from his faith in God.

D.R. will be remembered as a leader of scouts, lover of music and nature, bird watcher, cat owner, friend to libraries, gifter of books, poet, reader, grandpa, father, and friend.

A memorial service will be held at St. John Methodist Church in Sebring at 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 4, 2025 with Pastor Ron De Genaro officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project to honor D.R., as he personally supported this amazing organization and encouraged others to do likewise each year on his birthday.

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
4001 Sebring Parkway
Sebring, FL 33870
Online condolences may be left at:
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com