Gregory Walker, 79
Bonner County Daily Bee | UPDATED 7 months, 2 weeks AGO
Gregory Michael Walker, 79, passed away peacefully Sunday, July 20, in Sandpoint, Idaho. A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at the Pack River Cemetery.
Born on Aug. 31, 1945, Greg grew up in North Idaho where his parents, Harlan and Margaret Walker, owned and operated the Talache Lodge, part of a former mining town turned fishing destination on Lake Pend Oreille. Alongside his three brothers, Greg enjoyed a boyhood full of adventure on the lake’s shores — fishing, exploring, and deepening a love of the outdoors.
In 1971, Greg and his beloved wife, Betsy, purchased property in the Selle Valley, where they built their home and homestead during the back-to-the-land movement. There, Greg poured his heart into the property, creating a lush oasis filled with fruit trees, gardens, and beauty — a place that became a gathering spot for family and friends. His green thumb and quiet stewardship of the earth were his lifelong legacy.
Greg was a skilled carpenter by trade, following in the footsteps of his father. He specialized in cabinetry, decks, gazebos, and fine furniture, leaving behind work that was both functional and artful. His creativity extended into his hobbies as well; he was a devoted collector of antiques and a maker of whimsical steam-engine assemblages crafted from vintage metal.
Though deeply rooted at home, Greg and Betsy shared a love of travel. Together they traversed the globe several times, building memories across continents but always returning to their beloved valley. Greg’s love of travel began as an exchange student in Florence, Italy, and continued to gain momentum living in Austria with Betsy and their young son.
Greg’s life was one of craftsmanship, care, deadpan humor, and quiet wonder—whether he was tending an apple tree, fishing the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River, varnishing a cedar chest, or telling stories of his boyhood on Lake Pend Oreille. He will be remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew him.
He is survived by his children, Hon and Holly Walker; his grandchildren, Della and Miles Wheatcroft; his brothers, Gordon and Dennis Walker; and his beloved border collie Eddie.
Greg was preceded in death by Betsy, his wife of more than 50 years, as well as his brother Steve.
Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit Greg’s online memorial at lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guest book.