Douglas Michael Walker, our amazing husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend went home to be with the Lord Sunday morning, November 19, 2017 surrounded by his family.

Born March 11, 1949 as the youngest of ten children, Doug accomplished enough in 68 years to fill ten lifetimes. Feeling compelled to serve his country, Doug voluntarily joined the U.S. Army at the age of 17 and was immediately deployed to Vietnam, serving two tours on the front lines of the war. He then went on to serve admirably in the U.S. Air Force.

Doug’s military service led him to be stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base where he met the love of his life, Tina. Married for 42 years, Doug and Tina built a life of love, laughs, and happiness.

Doug transitioned to civilian life with Norfolk Southern Railroad, where he worked for 19 years as a foreman. He then started two very successful businesses, Carolina Fence & Maintenance Company and T&D Siding.

Doug’s work ethic and business acumen allowed him to build a special life for his family in Columbus, N.C. A giving and generous soul, Doug joyfully helped countless family, friends, and strangers in their time of need. He was a man that could build and repair anything.

Doug was a spirited competitor and loved a good challenge. He enjoyed golf, hiking with his dog, and racing motorcycles leading him to be the champion of the 60 plus class division. Doug also won more than his fair share of card games over the years.

However, Doug’s favorite activity was spending time with his family, especially gatherings that included his daughter Stacie, son Travis, and grandchildren Oliver and Ellis. Many great days were spent riding bikes on Hilton Head Island and celebrating life with food and laughs.

A rare man of honor, integrity, and love, Doug will be missed desperately, but his example and legacy will live on forever through his family.

Doug was preceded in death by his parents, George Austin and Maybelle McDowell Walker, and a brother, George Kenneth Walker.

He is survived by his wife, Tina Moss Walker; a daughter, Stacie Walker Cogburn (Trip); a son, Travis Michael Walker (Eanna); and grandchildren, Oliver and Ellis Rose Cogburn. Also surviving are numerous siblings, nieces, and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Friday, Nov. 24, 2017 from 6:30-8 p.m. at McFarland Funeral Chapel, Tryon, N.C.  A funeral will be held on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017 at 2 p.m. in the McFarland Funeral Chapel in Tryon, N.C. with Pastor Scott Mills officiating. Burial will follow in Mill Spring First Baptist Church Cemetery, Mill Spring, N.C. with Military Rites by the Polk County Veteran Memorial Honor Guard.

An online guest register is available at www.mcfarlandfuneralchapel.com.

McFarland Funeral Chapel & Crematory

Tryon, N.C.