Robert Walker loved all kinds of sports, played golf frequently and was fond of everyone associated with Northwestern Hills Golf Course, according to his wife Debbie. In his memory, Mrs. Walker organized a golf tournament that took place on the first anniversary of his death and this week presented the proceeds to the Northwestern State University Foundation for maintenance and improvements at Northwestern Hills. Plans are already in the works for this year’s tournament, set for Dec. 10.
“I knew soon after his death that a memorial associated with NSU would have pleased him very much,” Mrs. Walker said. “It was easy to talk everyone into planning the memorial golf tournament and donating the proceeds to NSU.”
Robert Walker was a local businessman who earned a degree in business administration and economics at Northwestern State in 1972. He and his wife owned Point Place Marina, which she continues to operate. His businesses allowed him to employ and mentor numerous NSU students who maintained personal relationships with him because of the love, generosity and personal interest he took in each of their lives. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, friend and mentor. He passed away in 2014.
Mrs. Walker said friends, business associates and the community showed strong support for the event.
“Our wholesalers, along with local banks, donated gifts and we had shirts printed with a design that Max Tucker at Nakatosh Tattoo designed,” she said. “I’m hoping our second tournament on December 10th will be even bigger and better.”
“Robert was always very supportive of the golf course,” said William Ackel, director of the NSU Recreation Complex. “He was always going the extra mile for us. He was an extraordinary member who would do anything he could to help. He enjoyed the fellowship here and he was always willing to help with any projects we had going on.”
For information on contributing to the Robert Walker Memorial Fund, contact Brittany McConathy, assistant director of University Development, at (318) 357-5215 or mcconathyb@nsula.edu.
PHOTO:
Debbie Walker, center, presented proceeds from the Robert Walker Memorial Golf Tournament to the NSU Foundation to be used for upkeep and improvements at Northwestern Hills Golf Course. From left are NSU Foundation and NSU Recreation Complex representatives Erin Dupree, Hall Adams, Debbie Walker, William Ackel, Brittany McConathy and Tiffany Chasteen.