Thomas Fowler Walker

Thomas Fowler Walker was born November 20, 1944, in Boca Raton, Florida. He passed away peacefully on June 22, 2026 at the age of 81 in his home surrounded by his wife, son, and daughter.

Thomas was preceded in death by his father, Alexander McComb Walker, mother Mildred Dittrich Walker, sisters Joanne and Louise, and brother Jeff. He is survived by his wife Betsy Billeter, son Alex, daughter Lindsey, beloved grandchildren Wyatt, Leif, and Anders, sisters Lucy, Liz, Bertie, and Barbie, and brother Michael.

Tom spent an idyllic childhood growing up in Arco, Idaho with his eight brothers and sisters, and finessed his fishing skills on the Big Lost River which lasted him a lifetime. In 1963, a week after his 18th birthday, he joined the Navy and was deployed during the Vietnam War aboard the destroyer USS Henry W. Tucker.Tom came to the Kittitas Valley in 1969 with his cousin Phil Walker to enjoy the wonderful hunting and fishing. Tom felt at home in the Kittitas Valley and never left. Tom wed the love of his life, Betsy Billeter, on December 13, 1980 and together they enjoyed 45 years of marriage. 

Tom and Betsy raised Alex and Lindsey in their cherished Ellensburg home where he lived for 47 years. He worked as an electrician for Twin City Foods and the City of Ellensburg before retiring in 2010.Tom never met a stranger and will be remember for his outgoing nature and friendly banter. He enjoyed fishing, golf, watching Gonzaga basketball, and would best anyone at a game of cards or pool. 

Friends and family will gather on Sunday July 12th 1pm at the American Legion in Ellensburg to celebrate Tom and his life well-lived. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local public radio station in Tom’s memory.