EULOGY, delivered April 13, 1988 and written by his son, Gary:
Russ Walker’s cheery smile will be missed by all who have known and worked with him. Survived by his sister, Inabell, and his son, Gary, he was the last living grandparent to Susan, Sean, Scott and Stefanie.
Russ’ pleasant demeanor was always evident around those who worked with him in the motion picture industry. His years of valuable service spanned more than fifty years and included tenure at Hal Roach, Samuel Goldwyn, and Universal Studios, with his happiest time being the 28 years spent at Walt Disney Productions. His friends and associates are very numerous, and all speak of him with the highest regard and warmest affection.
During his many years at Walt Disney, Russ worked in the Budget Department, finally becoming its manager the final years of his employment. His expertise with figures, organization, and detail was clearly evident as he prepared and supervised the budgets for the television and motion picture productions of Disney. Few individuals loved and defended the Walt Disney tradition more than Russ Walker.
Father was an excellent provider for his family, and whether the years were fruitful or lean, he was always willing to work hard and give more than the required effort to his job and his employer. He had an acute sense of fair play. Once, when he was offered a raise in salary at Disney Productions, Russ turned it down because he felt that he was very fortunate to merely be employed at the studio.
To his everlasting credit, when his wife, Evelyn, became incapacitated after a crippling stroke, Russ remained by her side until her death four years later, caring for her every need.
Everyone remembers friends and loved ones in their own special way. Perhaps many who knew Russ will remember him as a kind friend who could frequently be found at his favorite place, the golf course, teeing off for another round of golf with his friends.
He enjoyed his life, his work and those around him. He will be missed by all of us.
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