Deacon Richard “Rick” Kenneth Walker
December 13, 1942 – October 2, 2025
Deacon Richard “Rick” Walker, 82, entered eternal life on October 2, 2025. Born in Bennington, Vermont, on December 13, 1942, he was the son of the late Donald and Cecilia Walker.
Rick proudly served his country in the United States Navy, operating nuclear submarines before beginning a long career at Millstone Power Station, where he worked as a nuclear power plant operator and shift manager for more than 35 years. After retiring, he found joy in driving a school bus, joking that keeping a reactor steady was easier than keeping middle schoolers in their seats.
Guided by a deep love for his faith and community, Rick was ordained to the permanent diaconate by Bishop Daniel P. Reilly on December 3, 1983, at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Norwich. He served faithfully for more than four decades at St. Paul Church, Waterford, where his homilies, humor, and compassionate heart touched countless lives.
Deacon Rick was known for his quick wit and his ability to weave Scripture and laughter into every conversation. His devotion to the Word of God, his ministry of service, and his steadfast love for his wife and family reflected his belief that faith should be lived with joy.
Survivors: his beloved wife, Sharon Ann Walker; his sister, Mary Wasielewski of Branson, Missouri; his children, Corinne (Bill) Banker, Cheryl Walker, Cynthia (Mark) Noniewicz, and David (Nicole) Walker; his grandchildren, Ben (Deanna) Banker, Tyler (Meg) Banker, Jennifer (Justin) Hicks, Tucker and Brady Noniewicz, Katie Teixiera, and Lucas and Mason Walker; and great-grandchildren Blake Hicks, Avery Banker, and Skylar Banker. He was predeceased by his brothers William, Robert, Donald, Father David, Andrew, and James Walker; his sister Jean Walker; and his foster daughter and longtime family friend Rachel Schriver.
Funeral: A Funeral Mass was celebrated on October 9 at St. Paul Church, Waterford, with burial following.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Deacon Rick’s memory to Unbound, an international nonprofit that was close to his heart.
May he rest in the peace of Christ, reunited with those he loved, and forever in the company of the One he served so faithfully.
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