George Walker, Jr. Obituary

George William Walker, Jr, born September 2, 1935, passed away in his home from natural causes on January 3, 2026. He lived a life marked by strong opinions, deep interests, and an unmistakable presence that left an impression on nearly everyone he encountered. George was 90 years old.

A devoted enthusiast of opera and classical music, George built a collection of more than 2,000 vinyl records, most produced in 1969 or earlier. His favorite composers included Beethoven and Bach, while Mozart appealed to him less. He especially enjoyed the European operas Aida and Madam Butterfly, and he felt a personal connection to the American folk-opera Porgy and Bess. Tanglewood in Massachusetts was perhaps his favorite venue, and he held particular admiration for conductor Leonard Bernstein. George also prized recordings by Bob Dylan, Lena Horne, Miles Davis, and others.

He loved the University of Colorado Boulder. And he also loved verbal sparing with people running for or elected to any statewide political office.

In Connecticut, George earned both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in science and later pursued doctoral studies in medicine until funding constraints brought that chapter of his academic journey to a close.

He was preceded in death by his sons, George Micheal ("Mike") Walker and William ("Billy") Rubin Minick; his sisters Octavia, Mary, and Eleanore; his brothers Robert, David, and Timothy; and his parents George William Walker, Sr, and Thelma (Jacobson) Walker.

George is survived by his daughter Jennifer; his son Nathan; his sisters Beverly and Gloria; his brothers Steven, Thomas, Gregory, Jonathan, and Kenneth; a granddaughter and a grandson; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and friends.

Over the course of his working life, George held many roles, including teacher, housing code enforcement officer, state park ranger, and nursing assistant. In later years he became known locally for his determined activism, earning a reputation as a formidable and persistent advocate for political causes in which he believed.

George was a regular and engaged attendee at a local Mormon church. Though he never formally joined, he said he would have done so had he ever felt truly moved to join any church. George considered several members there to be his adopted family.

Beyond music, George loved stories and the tradition of epic storytelling. He was a lifelong reader who spent countless hours with medical and psychoanalytic writings, as well as works by mystics and literary masters. Vintage copies of the Christian Bible, the Book of Mormon, and The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois shared space in his home, reflecting ideas that captured his attention.

George was known for his sharp wit and his tendency to challenge others' thinking-sometimes playfully, more often pointedly-but always in a way that reflected his restless mind and strong sense of justice and individuality. He was at his best in the role of "Grandpa George" to his chosen granddaughters; they also experienced firsthand his humor and capacity for affection. His life, in its complexity and intensity, will be remembered by those who knew him.

George's ashes will be buried near George's mother and father, and near William, one of George's two late sons. A celebration of life will be held this summer for George, Mike, and Billy. A celebration of George's life is also planned on March 7, 2026 at the local Mormon Church. In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor his memory may consider making a donation to the University of Colorado Boulder Department of Music or Opera, programs that meant a great deal to him.