Community mourns passing of Coach Jace Walker
Coach Jace Walker’s family will receive friends during the visitation on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2023, from 4-6 p.m. in the Carolyn Harris Performing Arts Center at Cook High School, and the celebration of life will be at 6 p.m.
The family is asking for everyone to wear green or Cook Hornet shirts.
On Monday, Aug. 28, Cook High School announced the passing of Jace Walker, age 28: “Coach Walker was a Cook graduate, teacher, coach, colleague, and friend. He will be dearly missed by the many individuals whose lives he impacted. Please keep Jace’s family in your thoughts as they go through this difficult time.”
Here are some remarks posted by friends of Coach Walker:
* “My heart breaks for his family. Jace was a great guy who really enjoyed coaching the sport he loved. He loved investing his time, teaching his knowledge of that game to the kids of this community. We will never understand the why, but I pray and trust that God will cover his family, give them peace, strength, and comfort to cope with the days ahead. RIP Chipper!” – Richie N Stacy Weeks.
* “He was the most humble and realest friend I ever met. We love you, Jace.” – Jorge Villa.
* “He was such a great guy and mentor!! We are blessed to have had him in our children’s lives. Sending love and prayers to his family!!” – Jessica Walker.
* “Cook County lost a great educator tonight. Jace made a big impact on Clay. He truly cared about his students and they knew it. Please keep his family, friends, coworkers, and students in your prayers.” – Tia King.
* “I’ve sat and thought on this all day. Terrible news. As a father, your number one goal is to be there for your kids. Knowing the stories I’ve heard about him, that was his main focus. Rest Easy.” – Tanner Bennett.
* “Jace was such a great coach and always a pleasure to be around. He will be missed by all who knew him. Especially his baseball guys and his softball girls and coaching staff. Please continue to pray for Cassie Doyle and the boys.” – Sherry Purvis Sellars.
* “You gave life one hell of a ride. You served your country; you taught sports to the newer generation; you had an amazing fiancée and two of the sweetest boys. I pray your family finds peace and comfort knowing you’re no longer in pain. I never knew that in February it would be the last time I got to speak with you, catch up, or just hang out. I wish I would’ve made more of an effort in that time. Rest in peace, Jace Walker.” – Chris Davis.
* “Keeping his family in our prayers. He was a good teacher and always made me laugh in class. I’m happy I got to have him as a teacher in 9th grade.” – Faith Valencia.
Please see a complete obituary for Coach Walker on our website or on page 7 of our print edition.
