Major Eric Walker DSO
1916-1978

"It is with the deepest sympathy for Olive and her family that we record the passing of one of Sheffield Scouting's former stalwarts - Eric Walker. Born in Manchester, his first introduction to Scouting was when he joined Manchester Grammar School Group, and from then he progressed to Scout leadership in other areas of S E Lancashire before the advent of war found him in H M Army. Distinguished war time service culminated in his demobilisation with the rank of Major and possessing a well-earned DSO. After service in the Colonies, he was appointed Deputy Bursar and, later, Bursar of Sheffield University.

In 1963, he resumed Scout Leadership and became District Commissioner of Rivelin District and, in June 1964, was appointed the first City Commissioner of Sheffield City Scout Association — a post he held for the next three years. He brought many talents to the job. His technical Scouting knowledge and ability were excellent, but it was in the exercise of his personal qualities that he surpassed. A warm, kindly man of great vision, he 'helped other people at all times', and devoted endless hours of his spare time to the service of youth through the medium of the Scout Movement. It is right to say that much of the success and soundness that Sheffield Scouting enjoys today is the result of excellent foundation work contributed by Eric Walker.

Inevitably the increasing burden of his professional life lessened the time he could spend with Scouting, and he began to experience the early warnings of indifferent health. It was with intense regret that he resigned the City Commissionership in September 1967, but he maintained his interest in Sheffield Scouting thereafter and was a frequent attender at many Scouting functions. The breakdown in his health culminated in his retirement from the University in 1971, and since then both he and Olive have borne his recurrent bouts of illness with commendable fortitude"

From a Tribute in Scout News