George Alexander Walker, 1930-2010

The funeral for George Walker, the well-known and popular Toronto area piper, teacher and raconteur was held on August 2, 2010, in Toronto. George Walker immigrated to Toronto from Aberdeen and from 1954 to 2004 was an active member of the pipes and drums of the 48th Highlanders of Canada, the storied Toronto-based militia regiment. , the storied Toronto-based militia regiment.

He was first taught pipes by Pipe-Major Pipe Major Neville McKay of the Aberdeen City Police Pipe Band (now Grampian Police). On landing in Canada he sought out tuition from John Wilson, himself a newcomer from Scotland.

His service was marked by both a capacity assembly at Central United Church and full 48th Highlanders of Canada ceremonial tribute. George Walker’s loyal half-century membership in the 48th band stands as a remarkable rarity in the context of the modern pipe band movement. Few pipers or drummers anywhere have bested this distinguished accomplishment.

George Walker was a gifted, dedicated and active teacher. Among the countless individuals he taught are Michael Grey and Captain Fraser Clark. Grey’s 2/4 march composition, “George A Walker” was published in his first book of music. George Walker’s nephew, John Walker, is a current member of the Tayside Police Pipe Band.

On behalf of pipers and drummers around the world, we extend our sympathies and condolences to family and friends of George Walker.