Prof Walker (94) was a memorable garden guru/ tv personality well known for his gardening advice and highly regarded as "a father figure in modern New Zealand soil science". He migrated from the UK in 1952 and became NZ's first university professor in soil science based at Lincoln University and by 1979, on his retirement, was appointed Emeritus Professor of Soil Science. His career saw him win many academic accolades including the Bledisloe Medal, Lincoln University’s top medal for advancing New Zealand’s interests, the Rutherford Gold Medal, the Royal Society of New Zealand’s top award for scientific distinction, and the Jubilee Medal from the NZ Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Science for his significant contribution to agricultural science. He was also honoured by the Queen, recieving an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit. He is survived by his wife of over 70 years, four daughters, 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.