Richard A. Walker, 76, of Oden, formerly of DeTour Village, passed away Wednesday, December 30, 2009, at Northern Michigan Regional Hospital in Petoskey.

He was born in Brighton August 24, 1933 to Thomas and Frances (nee Randall) Walker.

Mr. Walker was graduated from Hartland Area Schools in 1951.

He married Beverly Shepard July 14, 1956.

He worked in residential construction for 55 years, was a member of Trinity Missionary Church in Petoskey, and volunteered for Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends at their cabin in the DeTour area, and fishing with his grandchildren.

Mr. Walker participated in several short-term mission trips to Columbia, South America; Kenya, Africa; India, and Virginia.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, along with their four sons and their families, Randy and Melanie, Tim and Judy, and John and Michele, all of the Petoskey area, and Tom and Patricia of Pickford; nine grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, and one greatgrandchild. He is also survived by nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his stepmother, Marion (nee Kimberly) Walker, and a brother, Robert.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Missionary Church Saturday, January 9, at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be at Lakeview Cemetery in Howell at a later date.

Memorials may be directed to Trinity Missionary Church, Northwest Michigan Habitat for Humanity, or the Manna Food Project.

Stone Funeral Home in Petoskey is assisting the family with arrangements.