Esther Helene (Recks) Van Walk

July 3, 1918 – November 11, 1993

Esther Van Walk, 75, passed away Thurs., Nov. 11, 1993 in Tacoma, Washington.

She was born in Perry, Oklahoma on July 3, 1918, she was the daughter of Frederick and Julianna R. Koehler Recks. Her parents died when she was very young. Following her graduation from Perry high in 1935, she attended Draughon’s business college in Oklahoma City. In August, 1936 she moved with other family members to Tacoma, Washington. She joined the Zion Lutheran Church became active in the Walther League, the official youth group. James Roland Van Walk, another member of the Walther League, caught her eye. They were married on June 7, 1941.

For many years she enjoyed working as the secretary at Spanaway Lutheran Church, and most recently at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church where she and her husband Jim were charter members since the early 50’s. Esther will be remembered as an active member of the Lutheran church, who always was involved in helping others and freely giving her time to those who needed her.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 47 years, James R. Van Walk.

Survivors include: daughters, Jeanne Robertson, Point Richmond, CA, Linda Nelson Avery, Bellevue, WA, Julie Storaasli and her husband, Mark, Puyallup; son, D.A. Van Walk and his wife, Joanne. She is also survived by 4 grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and friends.

A memorial service and fellowship will be held Sun., Nov. 14, 2 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Tacoma, Washington. Remembrances may be made to Concordia Lutheran School, 202 East 56th Street, Tacoma.