Stephen Barrow Walker, of Milford, CT, passed away peacefully on August 13, 2012. He was 52.

He is survived by his wife Wanda H. Walker, children Caitlin W. Kinast (Seth), Andrew S. Walker, and Matthew J. Walker; parents Col. Peter H. and Barbara B. Walker, brothers Glen H. Walker (Lesa) and Douglas K. Walker (Teri).

Born in Frankfurt, Germany, he was an Army brat who called numerous military bases home. Upon graduation from Thunderbird High School in Phoenix, Arizona, he chose to follow in his beloved grandfather's footsteps by completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Mississippi. He was then commissioned in the United States regular Navy and was assigned to surface warfare duty for ten years, where he attained the rank of Lieutenant. While completing his service as an instructor for Naval ROTC, he earned a master's degree in public administration from the University of Oklahoma.

Following his military service, he was a longtime employee of Johnson Controls Inc. Throughout his life he was a passionate fan of the Atlanta Braves, and he instilled his love for the game in his children as he coached each of them. He was not only a father to his children, but also their friend and confidant who truly loved them unconditionally. He will be forever remembered for doing his duty honorably as a husband, father, and sailor.

Relatives and friends are invited to a funeral Mass at Transfiguration Church in Marietta, GA, on Friday, August 24, 2012 at 1:00 p.m., with a celebration of his life and military service immediately following at Oakton House and Gardens in Marietta, GA.

To honor his memory, donations may be made in his name to AmericanWarrior ( www.americanwarrior.us ). Caring Staff of the Darby Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements