Kevin Walton

As his family and friends can attest, Kevin Walton was a constant source of strength for those around him, even in the most difficult of times. Though Kevin led a private life, he loved to crack jokes and was well known for his great belly laugh and his sense of humor. He had a strong foundation of faith and values, and he was never afraid to work hard in order to provide for his loved ones. It was easy to see that Kevin’s highest priority in life was fostering deep and personal relationships with his friends and family members. A loving brother and uncle, and with no kids of his own, he always considered himself blessed to be surrounded by extended family. Deeply loved, Kevin will be forever missed.

It was on April 10, 1956 that John and Anna (Powell) Walton were pleased to announce the birth of the baby boy they named Kevin in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Growing up, Kevin was a typical young man of his generation in many ways. He was raised in the family home alongside his younger sister, Kelleen. Throughout his childhood Kevin was quite protective of his sister, and over the years the two grew to be very close. Kevin discovered his passion for sports at a young age, especially baseball and football, and enjoyed being active in any sports activity. He was an all-state baseball player and excelled as a catcher. Kevin was also a kicker for the football team at Hackett High School.

New and exciting changes were on the horizon for Kevin as he went on to pursue a teaching degree at Western Michigan University. Though he eventually decided on a different career path, he enjoyed his time at college. Naturally, Kevin played on Western’s football team. A proud Bronco graduate, sports would continue to play a major role throughout Kevin’s life. He would go on to share his knowledge of sports by coaching baseball and football at Hackett. He enjoyed playing in intramural softball and baseball leagues where he also formed several meaningful relationships and made many friends.

Kevin was well known for his solid work ethic. In fact, he nearly always worked two jobs. Kevin was the proud owner of The Lawn Company for 40 years, mowing and pruning customers lawns with expert care. He enjoyed the solitude the job provided, but also the relationships he developed. Over time, many of his clients became good friends. Kevin often wouldn’t charge people and simply offered services out of the kindness of his heart. Later, he worked as a UPS driver for 26 years. Never one to shy away from hard work, Kevin was always willing to go above and beyond to help others whenever he could.

A homebody by nature, Kevin enjoyed the peace of a quiet life. His faith was central to him, and he was a longtime member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Kalamazoo where he ushered mass. Kevin was also blessed to make many friends through church. Following in his father’s footsteps, he joined Knights of Columbus Council 1616. As every friend of Kevin’s will attest, he was not a tech-savvy person. In fact, he was the farthest thing from it. He never had an internet connection, still used a flip phone, and setting his voicemail never entered his mind.

All who knew Kevin can surely agree that, of all the things he loved in life, he treasured his friends and family members above all else...and Notre Dame! If the Fighting Irish had a game on, he was sure to watch. More so, he thrived in his role as uncle to his cherished nieces and nephews and doted on them whenever he could. Kevin babysat them when they were little and made the most of every holiday together. One of his favorite traditions was loading his minivan full of presents for them on Christmas as he anxiously awaited their smiles when he pulled into their driveway. Kevin always knew how to make people feel valued through personal friendship. He shared a close bond with his aunt, Bonnie, and the two would go to McDonald’s every Sunday morning for breakfast. Kevin also loved his sister very much and wanted to be close to her, particularly in recent months. He ensured his friends and family knew just how much they were loved.

When reflecting on the life of Kevin Walton, it is easy to see his unwavering strength and his unconditional love for his family. Though he was naturally a quiet man, his actions spoke volumes about his beliefs and priorities. Kevin truly had a heart for serving others and would do anything for those in need. He was a fantastic role model and an active member of his community. Though he will be deeply missed, Kevin leaves behind a priceless legacy that his loved ones will be proud to carry on in his footsteps.

Kevin Walton, of Kalamazoo, age 66, died unexpectedly on June 26, 2022 with his family by his side. Kevin was preceded in death by his parents, John and Anna (Powell) Walton. Surviving are his sister, Kelleen (Dennis) Clancy; his special aunt, Bonnie Powell; and nieces and nephews: Ryan Clancy, Connor (Taylor) Clancy, Caitlin (Mike) Hedge, and Colleen Clancy; a great-niece, Daley Clancy; and cousins. Cremation has taken place. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 AM Friday (AUG 5) at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 936 Lake St, Kalamazoo. Burial at Riverside Cemetery. Following the burial, family and friends are invited to Louie's Trophy House for lunch. Visit Kevin’s webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories, photos, and sign his guestbook. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Westwood Little League or Catholic Schools of Greater Kalamazoo FBO Hackett Baseball. Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo 269-375-2900.