Gregory Robert Walker
October 22, 1956 - May 25, 2024
Tribute
It is with sadness that we inform you of the passing of Gregory (Greg) Robert Walker of Richmond B.C. Greg passed away on May 25, 2024, after a courageous battle with leukemia. He is survived by his wife Thalita and his daughter Charlotte of Richmond, BC; his mother Betty Jean Walker of Oliver, BC; his brother Kent Walker and wife Liz, of Toronto, Ontario, and was predeceased by his father John Harrison Walker.
Greg was born in New Westminster B.C. on October 22, 1956, and at the age of 5, moved to Toronto where he spent his childhood. After graduating from Erindale Secondary, Greg went on to receive a Bachelors degree with Honors with a major in History from the University of Toronto. Greg then pursued further learning and went on to Carleton University in Ottawa, where he earned a Masters Degree. During his university years, Greg worked summers for CP Air as a baggage handler and aircraft ramp attendant at Toronto International and Ottawa Uplands Airports.
Upon graduation from Carleton University, Greg launched his career as a reporter, covering the political scene at Toronto’s City Hall and Queen’s Park. Greg went on to become the Chief of Staff for Ontario’s Minister of Health Murray Elston, and later became the Government Relations Manager for the Ontario Lottery Corporation. After building a solid career foundation in Ontario, western Canada beckoned. Greg came back to BC to be closer to his parents who had retired to wine country in Oliver, joining the BC Lottery Corporation. After an illustrious career as the Director of Public Affairs at BCLC, Greg recently retired in the spring of 2023.
Greg was very community minded and believed in ‘giving back’, serving for many years as the Chair of Richmond’s Museum Society. Greg had a passion for travel, art galleries and jazz, and always looked forward to his traditional Friday night steak BBQ’s, enjoying a glass of fine red wine with his family. Most important to Greg were his wife Thalita and his daughter Charlotte, building a life and memories together.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 22 at 100 pm; at Richmond’s South Arm United Church.
In lieu of flowers please donate to Charity of your choice.
Condolences
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From: Lisa Syred
Relation: BCLC colleague
I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Greg’s passing. I had the pleasure of working with him for many years at BCLC and remember his kind, caring nature, his quick wit and the immense pride he took in his family – he was a true gentleman who has certainly gone too soon. My most sincere sympathies to Thalita and Charlotte.
From: Keith Liedtke
Relation: Very close friend
I am saddened to lose my close friend. Greg will be missed by everyone that knew him, He was a kind, friendly man – a shining light in our community. Liz and I send our heartfelt condolences to Greg’s family. Thalita and Charlotte – we are there for you and will never forget Greg.❤️
From: Richard(Ming) Quan
Relation: South Arm United Church member
Our sincere condolences to Greg’s family and friends. Greg reminded me of Superman! He was always well dressed and mild mannered but really was a man of strength and courage and duty! Yes! He will be missed! But not forgotten! Until we meet again!😇🙏🇨🇦
From: Gladys Primeau
Relation: BCLC
My deepest condolences to the family. It was always such a pleasure to come across Greg at work, and we always shared a joke, a laugh or some conversation. I know how devoted he was to his family and he always spoke so highly of you. Wishing you some comfort during this heavy time.
From: Chris So
Relation: Colleague at BCLC
Very sad to hear this news. My deepest condolences to the Walker family.
I worked with Greg for a number of years and enjoyed all our interactions. I’ll fondly remember Greg getting ready for the day in his vehicle in the mornings, swapping his dress shirt & necktie for t-shirt & shorts during his lunch hour runs, and him saying hi to everyone by name when he walked down the halls. Greg treated all people with respect and friendliness, regardless of title; that’s what made him special. His smile and laughter will be missed.
Wishing Greg’s family peace as time moves forward.
From: Jim and Rhonda Cronin
Relation: Friend and colleague
Thalia and Charlotte, we are so saddened to hear of the passing of Greg. I worked with Greg for a number of years at OLG. He was my mentor and city guide when I moved from Sault Ste. Marie to Toronto. We had so many adventures and many many laughs. I didn’t know he was ill or I would have reached out much sooner. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
From: Erica Simpson
Relation: Colleague
Greg was a wonderful colleague, and a friend to many. It didn’t matter if you had been at BCLC for one day or 10 years, his door was always open and he was always ready to help or share a laugh. His grapefruit cutter was epic. I’m really saddened to hear of his passing, but also feel very fortunate to have worked with him for a short time. Here’s to you Greg, you will be deeply missed.
Service Schedule
Celebration of Life
Date & Time:
June 22, 2024
Beginning at 1:00pm
Location:
South Arm United Church
11051 No. 3 Road
Richmond, BC Canada
11051 No. 3 Road
Richmond, BC Canada
Memorial Gifts
The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.
Thank You Notice
Send Flowers
Floral Tributes may be ordered directly through our supplier for delivery throughout the entire lower mainland, from Hope to Vancouver:
Wiebe & Jeske Funeral Home
202-31314 Peardonville Rd.
Abbotsford BC
V2T 6K8
info@wiebeandjeskefh.com
604-859-5885
When ordering please have the name of the deceased, the date of the funeral service and the address/phone number of the delivery location for handy reference.
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