David “Dave” Walker

Minot

David “Dave” Walker, 54, Minot, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, May 16, 2024.

Dave was born on July 10, 1969 in Minot to Bruce and Margaret (Manning) Walker. He was raised and educated in Minot. Dave played on his high school’s hockey team as a skilled defenseman and graduated from Minot High in 1987.

Dave started working part-time at age 14 for Mann’s Automotive, taking a full-time position as a machinist after graduation, wherein Dave eventually became the shop manager. He continued working in the same shop as it transitioned in ownership from Mann’s to Hedahls, and finally to Auto Value Minot.

Cars were a major part of Dave’s life, in work and in leisure. In high school he worked on race cars and in pit crews, a hobby and interest that continued into adulthood, where he worked on the late model race cars of his friends. Dave also loved attending sprint car races and the World of Outlaws.

In addition to being a racing enthusiast, Dave was also a mega fan of the LA Kings, a huge supporter of UND’s hockey and football teams, and was a passionate fanatic of the Detroit Lions. But Dave’s favorite sport to play was, by far, golf. He spent every possible weekend golfing with his friends at the Star City Golf Course in Velva, ND.

Dave also made sure to play it loud, “it” being the music Dave loved so much, consisting mostly of 80s metal.

Family was also a big part of Dave’s life. Dave was once married to Wendy Johnson, who preceded him in death. He loved being a dad to his two children, and loved being a “cat dad” to his beloved feline friend, Leon. David will be greatly missed but his kindness, sense of humor, and humbleness will always be remembered and cherished.

David is survived by his children, Dalton Johnson and Audin (Ryan) Rhodes; brother, Jim (Sherry) Erickson; sisters, Lori (Bruce) Hoffer and Carrie (Tim) Schweitzer; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family. David was preceded in death by his parents.

A private family service will be held at Thompson-Larson Funeral Home in Minot. A celebration of life service for the public will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 2 p.m. at the Star City Golf Course in Velva. Those wishing to sign the online register and share memories may access the online obituaries section at (www.thompsonlarson.com).

Published by The Minot Daily News, May 25, 2024.