05/28/2026
Obituary for George F. Walker, Jr. -
Kingston, NH - George F. Walker, Jr., 90, formerly of Newmarket & Lee died peacefully May 13, 2026 at All American Assisted Living in Kingston.
Born January 6, 1936 in Exeter, he was the son of George F. Walker, Sr. & Velma Gertrude (James) Walker.
George was raised on South Main Street in Newmarket, directly across from Newmarket schools, where he developed deep roots in the community that would shape his life. He took pride in being a lifelong resident of New Hampshire. A natural leader from an early age, he was actively involved in student government throughout his high school years and proudly served as Class President. An enthusiastic and talented athlete, George’s love of sports was evident early on—earning a spot on the varsity baseball and track teams as an eighth grader—and continued through high school, where he was a multi-season athlete, participating in cross country, basketball, baseball, and track. He graduated from Newmarket High School in 1954.
George’s long partnership with his wife Shirley began in 1949 when she noticed him on the Newmarket community playground after having recently moved to Newmarket. Their friendship grew into a devoted relationship, where they dated through high school and college years. They were married on June 20, 1959, at the Newmarket Congregational Church—a union that stood as a testament to enduring love and commitment for 66 years.
George proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army Reserve. Though he was not called to active duty, he remained proud of his commitment to his country.
Following high school, George pursued his interest in design and engineering, studying drafting at New Hampshire Technical Institute - Portsmouth, where he earned his Associate Degree. He went on to build a successful career as a draftsman and sales engineer, working at Moore Business Forms and later at Harris Graphics following their acquisition of Moore. He also contributed his expertise at Gould Manufacturing, where he embraced emerging technologies, including early computer-aided design (CAD), demonstrating both adaptability and a forward-thinking mindset.
George’s passion for sports extended well beyond his own playing years. He dedicated his time to youth development as a baseball coach with the Oyster River Youth Association. As director of the youth baseball program, he played an instrumental role in organizing the summer baseball league including administrative duties, the team draft, and maintaining the playing fields. He ensured that young athletes had the opportunity to learn, compete, and enjoy the game.
Throughout his life, George found great joy in both the outdoors and hands-on craftsmanship. In his younger years, he enjoyed hiking the White Mountains with friends and family, including completing the demanding Presidential Range Traverse. During the 1970s and 1980s, he was an enthusiastic snowmobiler and played a vital role in the local community as a founding member and president of the Lee Sno-Travelers snowmobile club. His leadership helped support the formation and expansion of the snowmobile trail network in New Hampshire.
In retirement, George devoted himself to his passions for woodworking and gardening. He volunteered as a handyman at Canterbury Shaker Village and took part in advanced joinery and timber framing courses, honing his craft to a remarkable level. One of his proudest accomplishments was building a post-and-beam barn on his and Shirley’s property using timber sourced, felled, and milled on-site. His woodworking skills produced many cherished family heirlooms, including blanket chests and toy boxes, and he applied his talents to restore and repair elements of Shirley’s 19th-century barn frame weaving loom.
He had a love of physical work and being outside, whether it be doing yard work, working up firewood, or clearing snow with the old tractor he inherited from his father. He enjoyed connecting with the past, working with traditional hand tools, and working on and driving his 1930 Ford Model A Coupe, “Oldy”.
George was a lifelong learner and committed community volunteer. In later years, he served the Newmarket Historical Society, conducting deed research, and exploring local history and genealogy. His work included researching notable local figures and tracing family histories for both the Historical Society and his own family.
Above all, George will be remembered for his deep devotion to family. He was a caring and supportive grandfather, a constant presence at his children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and theatre performances, and a gifted storyteller who brought history
and personal tales to life. His kindness, steady guidance, and genuine interest in others created a legacy that will endure through generations.
George’s life was marked by dedication, craftsmanship, community involvement, and love—qualities that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Velma, his six siblings, and his daughter Corinne (Timothy) Sterling. He is survived by his wife Shirley, daughter Julie (Arickey) Bounds, son Matthew (Renee), son Mark (Diane), grandchildren Aaron, Kristy, Whitney, Olivia, Justin, Dana, Kelsey, Alyssa, Bruce, and 11 great grandchildren.
Family and friends are invited to a graveside service at Lee Hill Cemetery in Lee, New Hampshire on Saturday, July 11, 2026 at 1:30 PM. A fellowship gathering will follow immediately at Lee Church Congregational (UCC). In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Newmarket Historical Society.
