Mr. John "Jack" Thomas Walsh

Jack was born on September 3, 1921 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada and was the son of John S. and Annie (Fillingham) Walsh. As a young child his family moved to Minnesota and as a teenager, he moved to Montana where he worked in the family mine. On St. Patrick’s Day in 1942, Jack enlisted in the US Navy, honorably serving his country during WWII. He also was given the opportunity to receive his high school diploma. He received an honorable discharge for his service.

Jack made his way to Oregon where he found residence in the Gresham area. He worked at Blue Lake Park in Troutdale, which was owned and operated by the Welsh family for over 30 years, and later worked for Gresham Feed and Seed. He went on to work for Hemphill Oil as a driver during the winter months and Oregon Asphalt and Paving during the summer. He retired from E.J. Bartells, an industrial supply warehouse, in 1986.

On September 26, 1952, John married Virginia Snell at the Pleasant Home United Methodist Church, where they were long-time members. Virginia preceded John in death in 2000.

JHack was a proud veteran and a member of the VFW. He enjoyed watching Westerns and John Wayne movies, and was very knowledgeable about old cars.

He is survived by his son Steve, daughter-in-law Joyceand granddaughter Mary of Gresham, and son Frank Mark Walsh of Baker City. His wife, Virginia and sister, Mary (Nell) Herz, both preceded him in death.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at 3:00 pm at Bateman Carroll Funeral Home in Gresham. Inurnment with military honors will be at Willamette National Cemetery on Tuesday, August 10, 2010 at 1:30 pm. Contributions may be made to Fairlawn Good Samaritan Village. Bateman Carroll Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.