Merrill E. "Gene" Walker

Merrill E. "Gene" Walker, 91, of New Philadelphia died Monday, October 3, 2011 at his home.

He was the owner and operator of Citizen's Budget Co. in New Philadelphia for many years.

Born August 22, 1920 in New Philadelphia he was a son of the late Merrill and Irene Stonebrook Walker. Gene was also preceded in death by his first wife, Elizabeth Walker; brothers, George and Richard Walker and two infant brothers.

Gene was a graduate of New Philadelphia High School and a 1941 graduate of Dennison University. Gene had a passion for playing tennis and bridge and loved watching football. He also enjoyed the outdoors, especially hiking in the Canadian Rockies.

Gene is survived by his second wife of 19 years, Ruth Dunlap Walker, whom he married on August 6, 1992; step son, Charles (Stephanie) Roof of Warsaw, Ohio; step grandchildren, Olivia and Ava Roof and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at 5:00 pm in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at New Philadelphia with Rev. Brian Flood officiating. Friends can call at the funeral home one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. Those wishing to express their fondest memories of Gene may do so by visiting the online obituaries and flowers link on the funeral homes website.

Memorial contributions may be made to Community Hospice at 201 West 3rd St., Dover, Ohio 44622.

Toland-Herzig