Chris Walker
February 20, 1983 - October 28, 2024
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Chris Walker, at the tender age of 41, from metastatic melanoma. He died peacefully in his home in London, Ontario, with loved ones at his side.
He will live forever in the heart of his “wifey”, Lindsay Francisco. Beloved son of Betty Walker and Don Walker. Younger brother to Darryl Walker and brother-in-law to Candice Walker, he was adored by his niece Penelope and cherished by his many aunts and uncles. Devoted dog dad to Toby and Max, who passed a year before him.
Chris spent most of his life in his hometown of Scarborough, Ontario, moving to London to follow the woman who would become his wife. Chris was proud to be an employee of Whitespark Inc. as a Senior Solutions Specialist. His colleagues and mentors at GatherUp and Imprezzio Marketing also held a special place in his heart. He spent most of his career in software sales, but fondly remembered his time as a PSW for people with physical disabilities.
Chris will be remembered for his generosity towards others, his love of animals, his laid-back attitude, his kind eyes, and his big heart. Commonly referred to as a “likeable guy”, he made others feel welcome and at ease. With a passion for music, Chris willingly travelled across the globe for rock music festivals and concerts and loved to support Canadian talent. A man of endurance, Chris ran the 2019 Toronto Waterfront Marathon in a brand new pair of shoes, without any training.
He enjoyed hikes with his wife, begrudgingly–but devotedly–accompanying her to the farmers’ market afterward. However, Chris could rest assured that if ever a Blue Jays or a Bills game was on, the television was his. Other joys included attending sporting events with his Dad, watching the game and talking about life over take-out with his Mom, and long conversations with his bestie, Stephen. He loved riding his bike through Springbank Park, day trips to Port Stanley Beach, all-inclusive resorts, video games, lifting heavy, and UberEats.
Cremation has taken place. A memorial will take place on Thursday, November 14th, at 2:00 p.m. at Peter and Paul Banquet Hall in Scarborough, Ontario. Located at 231 Milner Ave just off the 401 at Markham Road, there is ample parking available and the site is accessible by TTC.
Chris dreamed of one day having a space to foster rescue dogs. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Chris are asked to consider the London & Middlesex Humane Society to help fund their new shelter. Consideration can also be given to melanoma research in the hopes that, one day, no family will suffer such a loss.
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A donation has been made to Humane Society London and Middlesex.
I met Chris when he joined GatherUp. Right away I enjoyed working with Chris. He was such a genuine, positive person, and he brought that positivity to everyone around him. It was fun getting to know him as we worked together, and met in person at our company offsites. I was so sad to hear of his illness, and yet so inspired by how he stayed positive through his last months. My sincerest condolences to Lindsay, Betty, Don, and his whole family. Chris, you will be missed, my friend. My life is better for having known you. God Bless you and your family.
Chris, you were honest, kind, loyal, hard working and dedicated. These qualities made you an exceptional friend, son, brother and husband. Which is why this is so hard to accept that you're no longer here. You touched so many people who were lucky enough to have you as a part of their lives and you will never be forgotten. You taught me how to be a better version of myself and always pushed me to strive. You were an inspiration and I want to thank you for that. I'm gonna miss our daily calls just shooting the shit or discussing life. We shared so many random stories and secrets we wouldn't share with anyone else and it's because I knew you'd never judge me but instead you'd understand and give advice. I will always remember our fun times together and our random adventures. Things will never be the same without you, Walka Walka Walka, rest easy my friend. 🤍
Chris was a coworker, mentor, and friend—and he was really great at that last one. He encouraged everyone he met to see a bigger version of themselves and always made sure he let you know what he thought. We hadn't worked together for a few years, but he was still reaching out now and then to keep up with career and personal encouragement. I'll miss his random texts, sharing wins, and the laughs. Rest easy, Walker.
Chris… you were one of the good guys, a gentle giant, a man with a big heart and you wore it on your sleeve! We had many similar interests and beliefs which made being your friend easy. Lots of fun times and memories I will cherish. Life can be so unfair… I’m saddened with how things unfolded for you the last 6 months, you didn’t deserve it. My heart goes out to Lindsay, whos been your rock, and the rest of your family and friends as they navigate the times ahead. Rest easy my friend. 🍻 👊 ❤️ #FuckCancer
I was lucky enough to meet Chris through work. His loyalty and integrity are the two qualities that seemed to always come first. Something I quickly grew to respect. I was also lucky when Chris decided to come visit me in Michigan last year. He introduced me to his beautiful fiancé (at the time) Lindsay and cemented a friendship in real-time that began virtually. I consider that day a blessing. My love, and condolences, to Lindsay, Betty and Don. I can promise you all that I will always keep Chris close in my heart.
Chris was an old high school friend that reached out to me, out of the blue, to send a gift he thought my kids might enjoy. That's the type of guy Chris was, just a great human being. He will be truly missed. RIP Walker
Chris was head of sales at my company. He was a wonderful person and a delight to work with. In the relatively short time he worked with us, he brought innovation and structure to our sales processes. His skills were badly needed, and his impact on the company’s success was significant. Chris was a great guy who fit in well with the rest of the team. Everyone who had contact with him appreciated his smarts, his positive nature, his humour, and his kindness. We had been making plans for him to come to our home base in Edmonton in the summer, but his health made that impossible. I wish we had the chance to spend time together in person, as I’m sure we would have become good friends. I will miss our weekly calls and daily Slack chats. I will miss him dearly. My heart goes out to his wife Lindsay, his family, and all those who knew him.
Walker, I will never forget you and all our adventures for 20 years. You were a true friend and special person full of love.
Chris was a true gentleman, in every sense of the word. I have the fondest memories of roaming Queen West together back in the days of the Fun Haus, so many years ago now. While it's been a few years since we spoke, I always kept up-to-date on your journeys in life through social media and through mutual friends. It always seems the best of us are taken too soon. I'm so sorry for your beautiful wife and family's loss, and I hope they take comfort in knowing you touched so many people's lives. I'm absolutely gutted. Fuck cancer.
Chris was an absolute amazing soul that the industry was blessed to have. My sincere condolences to his wife, family and friends.
Chris, I am saddened to hear of your passing. You were a delight every time I interacted with you. The SEO community lost another review expert.
Chris.. We were just talking. We were gonna make plans to have you meet my little one. We became unexpected friends over the years and you were solidly there for me through some of my lowest lows.. I have no idea how to process this even though you were at peace with it. My soul goes to your friends, family and most especially Lindsay. Fuck cancer.
A donation has been made to Humane Society London and Middlesex. Message from the donator: Chris made life better for others, just by knowing him- I'd lost touch over the years but every once and a while we'd connect over dog talk. I just know Toby and Max are there for him now. Donation made in his memory.
Services for Chris Walker
Memorial Service will be held at:
Peter and Paul Banquet Hall
231 Milner Ave,
Scarborough, Ontario
November 14, 2024 2:00 pm
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
Dear Lindsay and Family We are deeply saddened by your loss, and our hearts go out to you and your family during this difficult time. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Our sincere condolences.
~ Kosatschenko Family