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WAYNE WALKER

Born: Jan 07, 1942

Date of Passing: Oct 19, 2008

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WAYNE WALKER January 7, 1942 – October 19, 2008 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Wayne Walker on Sunday, October 19, 2008 at the age of 66 years. Remaining to forever cherish Wayne’s memory are his wife Elaine of 43 years of marriage; daughter Melody and son-in-law Brad; two wonderful grandsons Kyle and Kristopher; son Christopher McKellar; mother Nellie Yosyk; sisters Brenda and June; as well as cousins, relatives and many, many friends. He was predeceased by his brother Peter Yosyk in 2007. Wayne Walker made his mark in 1954 as “Mr. Rock N’ Roll” and hadn’t stopped since. Starting out playing school dances and teen hops, Wayne survived all the musical trends over the years from the 60’s British Invasion, 70’s Disco craze, New Wave 80’s, Hip Hop 90’s and the New Millennium. 1963 was the year when the Wayne Walker band started playing hotels and clubs. This eventually opened the door for other local bands, as hotels were introduced to LIVE music in their rooms, which soon became the demands of the patrons. Through the sixties and seventies, Wayne worked at many Rock N’ Roll revival tours. Playing with the likes of Buddy Knox, Ronnie Hawkins and Johnny Rovers, not only establishing Wayne’s credibility on an international level, it created a friendship among Rock N’ Roll pioneers. When Wayne Walker hit the stage, it became ALIVE with those good old 50’s and 60’s sounds. In June 1987 while performing “Shakin All Over” (A Manitoba musicians reunion of the past 30 years), it was very evident that Wayne was heavily respected by his peers as “Mr. Rock N’ Roll”. A celebration of Wayne’s life will be held on Thursday, October 30 at 8:00 p.m. at the Pony Corral, 1700 Pembina Highway. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Wayne’s memory to the charity of one’s choice. WOJCIK'S FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORIUM 1020 MAIN STREET 586 - 8668

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 23, 2008

Condolences & Memories (6 entries)

  • Close as kids with the family interactions but lost track of in the mid 60's while at school in the US. On return became a big fan at our Friday night club at the Aberdeen and Town & Country. Especially remember a Christmas day gathering at my parents with most of the people mentioned above in attendance, and Wayne tuning a guitar I had given my mother as a gift, and I asked him to play the riff from Honky Tonk which he promptly did without a miss...A talented guy who should have stayed longer - Posted by: Ron Halliday (cousin) on: Aug 16, 2014

  • I first joined Wayne, Ray Stockwell, and Bob Townsen in 1967 while the band was a trio. That period of time at the infamous Aberdeen Hotel, was an absolute blast. I played lead guitar, but I was able to switch when needed. When Ray was off on railroad union business, I would slide in behind the drums, and we would never miss a beat. That was so much pure fun. When Bob was away, I did his job on bass guitar. - Posted by: Robert.(Bob) Wall (Bandmate) on: Mar 18, 2013

  • My twin brother John and myself, Bill first saw Wayne Walker in 1967 playing at the Aberdeen Hotel. He and his band were great and we loved him. We often mention him and he is really missed! He was a true rock and roller! - Posted by: Bill and john Hodge (Friends and Rock and Roll Lovers) on: Feb 05, 2013

  • John and I first heard Wayne in January 1967 in Winnipeg and have been a fan of his ever since ! He was one of the first live performers we had ever heard. He was truly great and we will miss him greatly. - Posted by: Bill and john Hodge (Friends and Rock and Roll Lovers) on: Feb 05, 2013

  • I have been a fan of Wayne since the 60's. Always watched the Press to see where he was playing and bugged my Hubby to take me.. We danced all night. I think of Wayne often. - Posted by: Wendy (Fan) on: Oct 28, 2012

  • Wayne Walker was a true friend. Sadly missed and his music and performances were a must see. - Posted by: John Nabozniak (Friend) on: Jul 31, 2012

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