Ernest A. Walker, 87, Columbia City, died at 2:10 p.m. Monday, July 10, 2017 at Parkview Randallia, Fort Wayne where he was admitted on June 30.

He was born Nov. 13, 1929 in Whitley County, a son of Willis A. and Helen M. (Ruby) Walker. His formative years were spent in Whitley County until the last six weeks of high school when his family moved to Noble County. He graduated from Albion High School.

On Oct. 5, 1948 he enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged July 16, 1952.

On March 21, 1953 he married Mary Lou Waltenburg. They made their home in Fort Wayne until December 1966 when they moved to Columbia City. Mrs. Walker died November 14, 1999.

On July 14, 2000 he married Deloris E. (Beckman) Jewell. They have always made their home in Columbia City.

Surviving relatives include his wife, Deloris; eight step children, John Jewell of Bluffton, Floyd Jewell, Scott Jewell, Ida Gatchell, Daniel Jewell, Brian Jewell, Christina Jewell and Noah Jewell, all of Fort Wayne; 18 step grandchildren; 11 step great grandchildren; and three sisters, Nila Jo Goodman of Sebring, Fla., Jane Ann Thomas of Battle Creek, Mich. and Ruby Perez of Columbia City.

In addition to his parents and first wife, he was preceded in death by a sister, Nancy Smith.

The graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Covington Memorial Gardens, Fort Wayne. There will be no visitation.

Preferred memorials are to Humane Society of Whitley County.

Arrangements are entrusted by Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.