James R. Walker

HOLDEN - James R. Walker Jr., 78, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family in the comfort of his home. A man of immense warmth, intelligence and humor, he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and an extraordinary ability to fix just about anything.

Born in Worcester on January 9, 1947, Jim was the son of the late James R. Walker Sr. and Thelma (Yvon) Walker. He grew up in Worcester and graduated from St. John’s High School in 1965. He attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute and graduated with a degree in electrical engineering and later earned his Masters in Business Administration. Jim spent the early part of his career at Norton Company in Worcester and later worked as Director of the Advanced Materials Division at Toshiba America Electronic Components where he was admired for his leadership, intelligence, and integrity. He travelled the world throughout his career and always returned with detailed stories of his trips. Jim retired in 2017 after a distinguished career but the thing that gave him the most joy was spending time with his family.

On November 27, 1971, Jim married the love of his life, Sandra Flynn. Together, they built a house in Princeton and raised three children — Jennifer, Kristin and Matthew. He was an incredible father who would do anything for his kids. He was also the silliest and most loving grandpa to his six grandchildren, Claire, Ellie, Will, Julia, Vivian, and Caleb. They brought him immense joy and he cherished every game played and moment spent with them.

One of the other joys in Jim’s life was spending time on Cape Cod. Often referred to as ‘Captain’, Jim was an avid boater who loved to be on the ocean with his family and friends.

Jim leaves behind his beloved wife of 54 years, Sandra Walker of Holden; his children, Jennifer Guertin of Holden, Kristin Treadway of Scarsdale, NY, and Matthew Walker of Charlestown, MA, and their spouses and his cherished grandchildren.

Jim will be deeply missed but his memory will live on in the pictures, stories and laughter he shared with his family and friends. A calling hour for friends and family will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street, Holden, with a funeral service to follow at 12:00 p.m. Burial will take place at Mt. Vernon Cemetery in West Boylston.

The family would cherish any memories or stories you would like to share on his tribute page at www.milesfuneralhome.com. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.