Obituary of Rose Walker

Rose Walker (nee Pakanec)

1940-2024

With her loving family by her side, Rose, a long-time resident of Chatham-Kent, ON passed away at “The Hamlets” Long-term home in Vernon, BC on Thursday December 19^th, 2024; two days after her 84^th birthday. Rose fought a courageous battle against a debilitating and unknown rare neurological disorder. 

Rose was born on the family farm in Howard Township, the youngest of five daughters of Peter and Kristina Pakanec. Rose was never a stranger to hard work. At age 17, Rose married and continued to farm with her first husband, Andy De Coninck for 13 years while working at Southwestern Regional Center initially as a Nurse’s Aid. Rose’s third job was maintaining the family home. She cooked, gardened, canned, lovingly knit and made clothes in those early years. Rose worked at the Regional Center for the physically and mentally challenged until 1995, finishing her career as a Purchasing Officer.

Bereaved and sorely missed by her daughter, Michelle De Coninck (Brian Kuzemchuk), and granddaughters, Kira (Brodie) and Corrin Kuzemchuk. Left to mourn are Rose’s stepchildren, whom she viewed as her own, Jamie Walker and Margaret Browne plus grandchildren, Jennifer Walker, Gary & Jennifer Browne, and several close nieces and nephews.

Mom was pre-deceased by her husband Robert “Bob” Walker in 1997, whom she enjoyed 13 years of marriage. Departed from her life were her sisters and their husbands, Sophia Pakanec, Antonia Semkovich (Fred), Mary Capek (Frank), and Helen Van de Hogan (Joe). Rose also lost her cherished friend, Charlie Ivan with whom she knew as a family friend growing up in the Slovak/Czech community and Mull Church.

Travelling, dancing, attending the casino, and playing cards were Mom’s favourite activities. She would have a twinkle in her eye and would try to suppress a laugh when she won any game. Always competitive and with horseshoes hanging in her favour!

As per Rose’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place on Friday, January 17, 2025, starting at 9:00am for visitation at St. Joseph Parish in Chatham. The funeral will commence at 10:00am, followed by an interment at Maple Leaf Cemetery (St. Anthony’s section). In lieu of flowers, donations to the Chatham-Kent Hospice Foundation would be appreciated. Funeral attendance and donations can be made through McKinlay Funeral Home.

McKinlay Funeral Home

459 St. Clair Street, Chatham

519-351-2040