Darlene Evelyn Walker, passed away peacefully on October 8, 2023, at the age of 91. Darlene was born on April 21, 1932 to parents George and Evelyn Wisherd in Bruce, WI.
Darlene is proceeded in death by parents, George and Evelyn Wisherd and younger brother Dale Wisherd. Darlene is survived by her children Robert A. (Rose Smith) Walker, Douglas (Sandra) Walker, Randy (Sherry) Walker; grandchildren Holly (Ricky) Kim, Anthony (Jessica) Walker, Dana (Jay) Bergner, Annie (Malachi) Johnson; great grandchildren Ty and Nora Bergner, Cash and Hayward Johnson, Charlie and Bennett Kim, Henry Walker; and brother Darrold Wisherd.
Darlene was joined in marriage to Robert (Bob) Walker in 1950 and together had three sons, Bobby, Doug, and Randy. The family relocated to Baldwin, WI where Darlene ultimately became an icon of the community as a successful business woman.
Darlene and Bob first purchased the A&W in 1962 as a small root beer stand on highway 12 in Baldwin. In 1977 they relocated the business to the outskirts of town where it remains today, family owned and operated. Her tremendous success throughout her career not only earned her National Operator of the Year in 1980, but impacted countless lives along the way. An impact that spans generations.
As much as Darlene loved her career, she left room for fun and instilled that passion in those around her. Some of her happiest days were spent poolside with her family, cruising down the St. Croix River on her boat, or shopping at Dayton’s in downtown St. Paul. In her later years, Darlene was happiest close to home in the company of her beloved dog Harry, or when spending time with her family, especially her great grandchildren. All of which could only be made better with a Packer game on in the background.
Darlene was ahead of her time in a multitude of ways. To know her was to know a woman who lived life with determination, resiliency, courage, and persistence in a world that was never quite ready for that. She did it with all the beauty and grace that only she could! She was a gift giver, and the best gifts she gave will most certainly live on. We will be forever grateful for her.
A private family service will be held followed by a gathering of family and friends from 4pm – 6pm on Friday, October 13, 2023 at O’Connell Family Funeral Home in Baldwin, WI. memorials are preferred to the Baldwin Police Department.

4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Friday, October 13, 2023
O'Connell Family Funeral Home - Baldwin
1010 Newton St
Baldwin WI, 54002