Frank C. “Bubba” Walker, 84, of Victoria, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2008. He was born on Jan. 12, 1924, in San Saba, to Valley Woods and George B. Walker.

After graduating from San Saba High School in 1942, Bubba served in the U.S. Navy during World War II aboard the USS Guadalupe AO-32, earning the rank of storekeeper second class. In 1946, Bubba was honorably discharged from active duty and joined the Navy Reserves. After eight years of reserve duty, he was discharged with a rating of storekeeper first class. For his years of service, Bubba earned the Navy Good Conduct Medal, American Defense Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with ten operations stars (two silver stars), Philippine Liberation Medal with two bronze stars, Philippine Defense Medal, Philippine Presidential Unit Citation, and World War II Victory Medal.

During his life Bubba owned several businesses including Victoria Implement, Inc., a John Deere dealership, and Walker Farms with primary crops being corn and milo. After retiring from the farming business and selling the dealership in Victoria, he returned to San Saba where he took over his father’s ranch. Eventually, Bubba sold the ranch and moved back to Victoria where he has lived ever since.

Bubba’s commitment to serving his country continued with the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4146 in Victoria where he held several offices including commander. He was also a past commander for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in San Saba. In 1950, Bubba was the VFW Deputy Chief of Staff for the State of Texas.

He was also a life member of The American Legion Post 0003 in Victoria, and master Mason for 59 years with the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of San Saba, Lodge 612.

He is survived by his son, George Robin Walker and wife, Jeri, of Livingston; sister, Peggy Hayes of San Antonio; grandchildren, Dena Pilsner and husband, Randy, of Victoria, and Justin Walker of Victoria; and great-grandchildren, Christopher and Kendyl Charbula of Victoria.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Lou Walker; son, Frank “Bubba Jr.” Walker; daughter, Frana W. Tyler; brother, George Terrance Walker; and grandson, Jeffery Tyler.

Graveside services will be on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 2 p.m at the San Saba City Cemetery in San Saba.

The family will receive friends, Saturday, November 15, 2008, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. at the Howell-Doran Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association or donor’s choice.