Week 29 - Music
The Early Years


Schooling

Music

National Service



A Change of Direction

A Return to what he loved
Dad did some work in Perth in Sir Charles Gardiner hospital but was struggling to find permanent work so he looked for work elsewhere in the country. Around this time new treatments for his eyes had become available and he was able to play his trombone much more often.
Another move is afoot
In 1982 we moved to Brisbane where Dad worked at the 1st Military District Hospital. We moved onto the base in 1983 and one day dad came storming into the house to ask us what we had said to the new adjutant as he said I have insolent brats. I said we were swimming in the pool and he asked us what did we think we were doing to which I replied “Swimming, Sir”. A short, succinct answer to his question with sir on the end, the way I had been taught. He then asked "No, I mean what are you doing on this army base?" "We live here sir." "Ahhhh Sergeant Walker’s kids." The tone of the Adjutant's response really said it all.
The music continued
Dad played in various amateur theatre orchestra’s performing music for such shows as the The Sound of Music, Ruddigore, The Music Man as well as oratorio’s such as The Jerusalem Passion, a local Brisbane composition. In more recent years he was a much loved member of Queensland Wind and Brass.

Funny stories, sweet stories, sad stories- this tribute to your dad has it all. Don’t we all wish to be remembered so well?
Hello Wendy
Thank you so much for reading about my dad. I can only hope to be remembered as well as him.
Regards
Megan
What a wonderful tribute!
Thank you so much Marie. I am glad you enjoyed it.
Regards
Megan
What a fitting tribute to your father! He sounds like a wonderful man! My grandfather had a similar personality to him– he loved to tell jokes and play small pranks, and was a kind and generous man. When my grandfather passed away, he also left a hole in our lives. May your father live on in these precious memories that you have!
Thank you EvaAnne. He was an amazing man and it is wonderful that I have been able to share just a snippet of that with the world.
Regards
Megan
I was in band for a time and this post triggered so many memories of my own. When I saw the photos of your dad in his uniform and then this one especially ” Eric Walker and an army buddy,” I just thought, some things never change. I can’t identify what that means exactly, but I feel a connection through this post. Thanks and I’m glad you’ve written this for your family.
Hi Devon
Thank you so much for your kind words. I am glad this post resonated with you.
Regards
Megan
The eulogy you and your brother prepared for your father was a true celebration of his life. How you must miss him.
Hello Liz
Thank you for your kind words. We do miss him but we have such great memories to fall back on.
Regards
Megan
Megan, this is one of the most moving posts about a parent that I’ve ever read. You have done an incredible job of conveying your father’s personality and showing how he lived his life to the fullest. I am so sorry to hear that he has passed. What an inspiration he has been to you and your family!
Hello Marian
Thank you so much for your kind words. He was an amazing man and the world is a sadder place with his loss. His funeral was attended by people who flew in from interstate that he hadn’t worked with in over 30 years! I am so glad you enjoyed reading his story and thank you so much for leaving a comment.
Regards
Megan