Leighton “Kay” Walden, 87, of Crawfordsville passed away Monday, April 22, 2024, at his home.
He was born April 2, 1937, at Crawfordsville, to the late Everett Walden and Lulu May (Truax) Ball. Kay was raised by his step-father, Francis J. Ball.
Kay graduated from Crawfordsville High School in 1955 and attended Ivy Tech Community College and Butler University. He proudly served his country honorably in the United States Navy. Following his service, Kay pursued a career at RR Donnelley, working his way up to press room manager/supervisor. After 39 years at Donnelley he retired and spent several years working in the Pro Shop at the Crawfordsville Country Club.
Kay married Verna Dorene Sparks on Aug. 28, 1960, at the First Christian Church in Crawfordsville. Together they raised four daughters, Michelle, Krista, Jill and Jeana, and a son, Michael.
Kay’s life was marked by his enjoyment for trap shooting, playing golf, reading and watching Gunsmoke. He was well-known for his love of slap-stick humor, his hearty laughter and his quick wit. He enjoyed playing cribbage, listening to big-band music, working in his shop and car mechanics, but mostly loved being home with his family. He was a member of the American Trap Association and the Donnelley Club.
Kay will be deeply missed by his wife of 63 years, Dorene; five children, Michelle (Alan) Goff, Krista (Terry) Henning, Jill Walden, Jeana Asher and Michael Walden; son-in-law Craig Asher; four grandchildren, Carl (Mary) Goff, Eric Goff, Mason (Connor Royer) and Morgan Asher; two great-grandchildren, Logan and Lance Goff; sister-in-law Ramona Masten; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his step-father, and his sister Sylvia (Robert) Dossett.
A visitation will be at Sanders Priebe Funeral Care, 315 S. Washington St., Crawfordsville, on Friday, April 26 from 11 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1 p.m. Pastor Alan Goff will officiate and military honors will be provided by the United States Navy and Legion Post 72 Honor Guard. Burial will follow at Old Union Cemetery in Jamestown.
Share memories and condolences online at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.
