The life of Dr. James L. Walker (1942-2019), who taught political science at Wright State University for 33 years, will be celebrated at a Remembrance Gathering in the first-floor Atrium of the College of Liberal Arts in Millett Hall at Wright State, from 4-5 p.m., Tuesday, May 7.
His former colleague Dr. Donna Schlagheck will serve as host. Anyone who would like to attend and possibly say a few words about Jim is welcome to do so. If you plan to attend, please e-mail Professor Schlagheck at d.schlagheck@wright.edu, and kindly note if your name should be included on the Speakers List.
Following the event, there will be a more “spiritual” gathering of Jim’s friends at W.O. Wright’s Grill and Pub, 3979 Colonel Glenn Hwy. (just a few blocks from the university).
Jim Walker died peacefully at home in Tucson, Ariz., on March 17, surrounded by his family. He earned his Ph.D. in Political Science from the University of California at Berkeley, where he met and married Patricia O’Malley on Oct. 30, 1965. He served as a captain in the Army stationed at the Pentagon during the Vietnam War.
After his military service, Jim began a long and distinguished career as professor of political science at Wright State University. He was considered an expert in constitutional law. He loved teaching and touched the lives of many students in his 33 years at Wright State.
After retiring, he and Pat moved to Tucson to be close to many golf courses and his grandchildren. His family, friends and colleagues will remember him for his tremendous warmth and generous nature, his sharp wit and sense of humor, and his wisdom and intelligence. He adored his family and his many friends. He was a wonderful cook and loved golf and tennis, the Sunday morning news shows, and traveling with his wife and friends.
He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Patricia; his children Kathy (Robert) Bodenhemier and Chris (Ching Mei Kuo); grandchildren Lucy, Sam, and Daniel; sisters Marguerite and Susan; and many nieces and nephews.
