Walker Agency founder battles liver failure

Posted on 26 July 2012
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The family of industry veteran Mike Walker is encouraging old friends and colleagues to send get-well messages as he battles non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver.

Walker has managed the ailment for two years, but is now in end-stage liver failure, according to a family posting on the Caring Bridge website, where the Walker family is directing prayers and well wishes.

“Mike is holding his own right now,” his wife, Mary, told Trade Only Today in an email. “I am in awe of all the support for Mike.”

Walker founded the Walker Agency, which handled public relations and promotions for Yamaha Motor Corp. for 25 years, until 2008. He has been a writer, broadcaster, publicist and marketer in the marine and outdoor industries for most of his working career.

Walker also wrote a monthly newsletter called “A Minute With Mike” that went out to more than 500 people who worked in public relations, sales, advertising, marketing and promotion, and a few editors and writers.

He has served as president of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, former president of the Southeastern Outdoor Press Association, a former board member of Boating Writers International and a founding member of the Marine Marketing Association. He is also a member of the Auto Writers Association.

He is a member of the Professional Outdoor Media Association and the Counselors Academy of the Public Relations Society of America.

Comments

2 Monday, 30 July 2012 13:18

By David Taylor

Mike, I recall the first day you, Ham and I met in Cypress to kick of the Yamaha outboard business. Those were “GREAT DAYS THAT WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED”. Fun was our business and our business was truly fun. Your contribution was and important link in the successful launch of Yamaha Outboards. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you overcome your health issues. Cheers my friend!

1 Friday, 27 July 2012 17:47

By Paul Dierksen

Mike, Your tireless, legendary work for Yamaha and the Industry continue to leave large footprints. Your work is admired and respected by colleague and competitor alike. Always looked forward to receiving
"A Minute with Mike" for smart, visionary thinking and sometimes funny observations on our Industry, state of Communications and Life. Our prayers are with you and your family during this battle.

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