Keith Evan Walker, age 72 of Poplar Grove, and formerly of the Central Florida Region entered into heaven Wednesday February 14, while in St. Anthony Medical Center. Keith was born August 28, 1934 in Mitchell, South Dakota to Kenneth Ellsworth and Lila Margaret (Scott) Walker. Keith graduated from Mt. Vernon High School where he played basketball and 6-man football, and achieved state awards for public speaking and debate. He attended Dakota Wesleyan College in Mitchell and graduated from the University of Iowa with a degree in Communication and Theatre in 1957. Keith married the love of his life Catherine "Kit" Morrison in Rockford. He served in the Army during the Korean Conflict. He won national awards in Toastmaster competitions. He maintained a career in broadcasting and radio station ownership his entire life in Iowa, Illinois and Florida. While living in northern Illinois he worked for WRRR radio, and WREX television stations. He was the founder of WKWL 104.9 FM radio station (now WXRX). Keith enjoyed being "Pop" to his grandchildren, spending time on beaches with family, farming, and being an avid Florida Gator sports fan. He is survived by his mother of DeLeon Springs, FL; son , Scott(Alison) Walker of Gainesville, FL; and three daughters, Kristi (Jim) Franseen of Poplar Grove, IL, Kim (Keith) McGuigan of Orlando, FL and Kara (John) Hoblick of DeLeon Springs; grandchildren Catherine "Katie", Sarah, Margaret "Maggie" Franseen; Stewart, Westleigh, Kent Walker, Kevin Spaulding; Johnny, Kayla, and Jake Hoblick; brother, Dennis (Shannon) Walker, of Tolland CT; and mother-in-law Rosemary Morrison. He was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Kit, and his father. Special thanks to A.K. Kilburn, Heartland Hospice, Anam Care, and St. Anne Center.

Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice, or Alzheimer's Association.