Frederick Leslie Walk Jr.

FREDERICK LESLIE WALK JR.

Palm Bay, Fla.

Frederick Leslie Walk Jr. moved on from this earth Friday, August 27, 2021. He passed away in the comfort of his home with his wife and daughter.

Fred was born Jan. 3, 1943, in Long Beach, Calif., to Florene and Leslie Walk Sr. He was brought to Webster, Iowa, by his father at the age of three, then was raised by his paternal grandparents, Dr. David

and Grace Walk.

He taught himself to play guitar at the age of 13 while listening to a Chicago radio station on his transistor radio. He went on to play bass, trumpet and guitar. In the 1960s, while attending the University of Iowa, Fred started to perform with the Prophets, blending a unique combination of of rock 'n' roll, R&B and blues with his fellow bandmates. Midwest touring and popularity increased until an offer from Mother Blues in Chicago came to be their house band. The move to Chicago came with a name change, the Linn County Blues Band. In time, the gig led to a recording contract with Mercury Records. Mercury relocated the band to San Francisco. Their name was changed to Linn County. In San Francisco, they played the Fillmore West, the Fillmore East and other popular venues, sharing the bill with many historical artists.

In addition to Linn County, Fred played with Danny and the Juniors, was back up for many artists, and played the Cedar Rapids music scene with so many talented artists. In later years, Fred was a business owner and territory manager for Mohawk Industries. Fred loved fishing and boating.

Fred was a lifetime member of the Iowa Rock 'N' Roll Music Association. He was inducted to the Hall of Fame in 2003 (Rockin' Flames) and in 2004 (Linn County).

He was inducted into the Iowa Blues Hall of Fame in 2006.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, David Pharr; and in-laws, Millie and Robert Mitchell.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Deborah Walk; daughter, Leah (Cole) Gonzales; sister, Gail (Jim) Ralph; and grandsons, Cole "C.J." and Lincoln Gonzales. Extended family members in addition to a wealth of friends also survive. Fred will missed by his family and loved forever.

In lieu of a funeral service, Fred's family ask that all who love him nationwide celebrate his legacy on his birthday, Jan. 3. Or, after reading this, play one of his songs, or your favorite song, to celebrate the joy that music brings into our lives.

He always held Webster, Iowa, and surrounding communities close to his heart. Donations in Fred's memory may be made to: English Valleys Schools, 211 College St., PO Box 490, North English, IA 52316.