Cornelius Walker Booklet

SUNRISE January 26, 1956

SUNSET June 26, 2020

“Absent from the body, and Present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8)

C

ornelius Walker was born on January 26, 1956 in Chicago, Illinois to the union of Florida and Roosevelt Walker Sr. He was the third of eight children.

Throughout his childhood, Cornelius was always ready to learn and meet any challenge he faced. These are just a few traits he carried from his childhood through adulthood. This proved evident when Cornelius successfully completed an apprenticeship program in 1980, receiving certification to become an elevator mechanical engineer. He was a member of International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 2.

Throughout his career as an engineer, Cornelius was known for his work ethic that reflected sound judgment, intellect and integrity from 1980 – 2009.

Cornelius accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and personal savior in 1990 at the Purchased Church of God. Cornelius was very faithful to the ministry and served diligently for 4 years. In 1994 he joined Crusaders Church under the leadership of Apostle John Eckhardt. He served faithfully in Crusaders Church, where he was ordained deacon, led the teaching department and traveled to nations spreading God’s word.

Cornelius was a lover of God’s word, he

enjoyed ministering and teaching the word of God to others. His faith was unwavering.

He had a great love for sports, and it showed through his playing organized softball with The Magicians in the 1980’s. His teammates called him ‘Wiz’ (short for Wizard) because of his unbelievable plays as short stop. Not only did he love to play sports but he loved watching them especially professional football. He was a true Chicago Bears fan; he would often share memories of them winning the Super Bowl in 1986 on his birthday.

Cornelius continually had a kind word to share, a heart-warming spirit and helping hands which was loved by all who knew him. He had a smile that lit up the room and an infectious laugh that will never be forgotten.

Cornelius was extremely family oriented and affectionately recognized as the patriarch of the family. He believed in unifying the family by organizing well planned family events, trips and exciting vacations with that purpose always in mind. He also took pride in spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was an exceptional father and loving grandfather.

Cornelius was preceded in death by his parents, Florida and Roosevelt Sr., three brothers, Roosevelt Jr., Sylvester and Joseph.

Cornelius leaves to cherish his loving memories: four children, Angel, Cornelius Jr., Laticia and Maria. Eight grandchildren: Xavier, Seth, Layla, Lezley, Denton Jr., Romyn, Karsyn and Brooklyn.

Three sisters: Shirley, Vivian, and Sandra; one

brother Michael of Florida. One sister-in-law; Shirley. A host of, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

To Dad: Some of my best and most vivid memories come from my childhood. There was pure joy and fun. There were trips and adventures. There was family and love. There was structure and discipline.

There was you. A father.

You never let us need or want for a single thing and you never let us go astray.

I witnessed you not only take care of business but your entire family, your friends & others as well. Shouldered burdens no average man could bear. Always making things happen and come together. For the greater good of everyone around you, you spared no expense & never thought twice about it. You stood up and held it down through it all.

Though I took it for granted as a child, I realized later in life how important that was and how much of an imprint you made on me.

I can’t even count how many times I’ve been told that I have so many of your ways, down to your demeanor. (And maybe a bit of your stubbornness & pride too lol) I recall you saying to me, “You know what daughter, you just like me. It’s going to be hard, but you are going to be the glue that holds your family together. Just make sure you take care of you too.”

Always had words of wisdom and they resonate with me constantly even when I don’t realize it.

Beyond anything, I’m thankful that people were proud to know you, love you, have you and weren’t ashamed to say it. I’m thankful you had the chance to see me grow into a real true go-getter. Watched me crush my goals & never settle for less.

Travel the world, work hard, make things happen in my life. Most importantly, you witnessed me take care of my family and loved ones. Just like you. And though we didn’t always see eye-to-eye, I took pride in being the product of your hard work, your sacrifice and knowing it was not in vain.

I still have so much to overcome and accomplish without you here Dad. I have a name to carry and big shoes to fill but I know you’re with me.

You prepared me.

“Walker Strong” I’m built for it all.

By blood!

I’m motivated.

I’m grateful.

I’m hungry.

I’m proud.

I’m ready.

In your honor, King Cornelius Walker!

-“The Baby” Angel Walker

“A Tribute to the Best Father Ever” It’s impossible to describe the pain I feel, I still can’t believe that you’re gone.

The priceless memories will get me through And help me carry on.

I thank God for you and for your life, I am who I am because of who you were and the example you set.

Your memory will live on forever, Your words of wisdom and endless encouragement I will never forget.

A priceless memory I will always carry with me is one of our last phone conversations, we were talking about life and current events as usual but this conversation was different, because out of nowhere you sang the chorus to Stevie Wonder’s “Don’t You Worry ‘bout a Thing” And I won’t worry bout a thing daddy, I’m confident God will give me the strength to get through.

It is an honor and a privilege to be your daughter, I promise I will not disappoint you.

You will always be loved, you will never be forgotten And you will forever be missed.

Your memories and legacy will live on for many generations to come.

I vow to make you proud.

Love you!!!

Love Your daughter, Laticia aka Tish

Dad: You were like a hero to me. You were strong, loving, supportive & always put your family first. I am honored and was blessed to have you as my dad. You will forever be remembered, missed and loved deeply.

-Love Maria

To Grandaddy: You were a great grandpa. You would always call and ask how we are doing. You were nice to everyone and all about family.

I am going to miss going to your house to visit, going out with you, and calling you.

I am going to miss you forever.

I Love You, Lezley (aka lil lady)

“Tribute to a King” You never really understand the growing up or responsibilities until you really do have to grow up!!!

The man I would see never complained about anything he just did.

Whether it was going to work or coming from work, in his home or taking care of business!!! Once side of him I hated to see coming was when he grabbed his belt, which I never recall them even selling in stores. Three things he could never have stressed enough was FAMILY no matter what, not having to make friends and patience!!!

Needless to say he was right and I definitely make those three things a part of my lifestyle. I’m thankful for and will definitely miss the calls, conversations, laughs and us always coming together. Last but not least if you knew him he always had sayings and one saying he frequently used was “If you don’t have it by now, you’ll never get it!!!

LOVE YOU DAD, REST EASY.

To Grandaddy: You always took care of us. I miss calling you and visiting you.

You were family to us and always told us to do what is right. I will miss you very much.

-Love Cornelius Jr,

Shirley, Vivian and Sandra much love.

I Love You, Denton Jr. “A Tribute to our Brother” Words cannot express giving honor to this man.

Our brother Cornelius was one of a kind.... through our up’s and our down’s, he was always there. He was a brother that showed us how much he cared.

These are not just words; they are true we looked out for each other... But Cornelius was the glue that kept us together.

We miss our brother a whole lot, but we thank God for the love we have in our hearts. ....

Tributes

Order

OF SERVICE

Friday, July 10, 2020

Wake | 1:00 p.m. • Service | 1:30 p.m.

Leak & Sons Funeral Homes 18400 Pulaski Road Country Club Hills Minister Joseph Provine, Eulogist Pastor Maria Smith, Officiating

Musical Prelude Visitation Processional Immediate Family Prayer Prophetess Rebecca Fells Facilitator Pastor Maria Smith Scripture Reading Prophetess Rebecca Fells Musical Selection Pastor James Peterson Life Reflections Pastor James Peterson Remarks Please limit to 2 minutes Musical Selection Pastor James Peterson Words of Comfort Minister Joseph Provine Final Viewing Recessional Immediate Family

Pallbearers

Cornelius Walker Jr. Roosevelt Walker, III Eric Walker Kendrick Walker Jared Walker Roosevelt Walker, IV Keon Tetter-Walker Walter E. Primous, III Michael Thompson Danny Williams David Butler

Honorary Pallbearers Dwayne Walker Xavier Slaughter Denton Higgins Jr. Roman Hendricks Dell Sanders

Acknowledgements

What a mighty God we serve. To God be the glory! There is much comfort in knowing that we are not alone. God is with us, and the assurance of His blessings are manifested in the sincere expressions of sympathy shown to us by family and friends. To everyone, your telephone calls, personal visits, cards, floral and food offerings, and other special gestures during this time have truly touched our hearts.

We are especially appreciative for the fervent prayers whispered on our behalf. May God continue to bless and keep you.

Sincerely, The Family of Cornelius Walker Interment Mt. Hope Cemetery 11500 South Fairfield Avenue Chicago, Illinois