Dr. Michael Lee Walker of Panama City, passed away Wednesday, May 23, 2007 in a local hospital. He was born in Baltimore, MD where his scholastic excellence culminated in a medical degree from the University of Maryland in 1972. He then accepted a residency in neurology at the University of Virginia. Following this appointment, he served as a neurologist in the U.S. Air Force where he achieved the rank of Major. In 1980 Mike landed in Panama City where he became a prominent and influential member of the medical and social communities. In addition to his private neurology practice, Mike served, headed, created, and advised committees and community boards throughout the state of Florida. He founded the Bay County Ethics Consortium and traveled extensively as a lecturer for the Pharmaceutical Speakers Bureau. He was also a past president of the Panama City Swim Team and Safety Director for the Southeastern Swimming Association. His professional career ended with his position as Medical Director at Gulf Coast Hospital as well as being an active board member for Vision Bank. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Brenda Rickenbach Walker of Panama City, son, Lee Walker and wife Beth Cranston of Cary, NC, daughter, Celeste Poplin and husband Lucas, 2 grandchildren, Emma and Ethan Poplin, all of Lynn Haven, brother, John E. Walker and wife Ethel of Clinton, TN and their four children. A memorial service will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. in the First United Methodist Church with Rev. Jack Hankins officiating. The family asks that any contributions be directed toward The American Cancer Society, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, or The American Heart Association in memory of Dr. Michael Walker.

Click here to view program from the memorial service. In addition to the minister, Jack Hankins (friend and colleague), others who spoke at the service included John "Ed" Walker (Dr. Walker's brother), John Mount (a long-time friend), Joey Ginn (business colleague and friend), and Dr. Duane Osborne (surgeon and friend).