Genesee County, MI — Around these parts, Ron Walker is better known by the nickname “Mr. Parks” — and for good reason.

“He just knows everything there’s to know about our parks, so that’s what we call him,” said Joe Krapohl, President of the Genesee County Parks & Recreation Commission. “He has so much historical knowledge, and it’s just indispensable.”

That’s why Ron held the jumbo-sized scissors at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new $5-million (50-site) expansion of Wolverine Campground on May 21.

At that ceremony, Krapohl also revealed another moniker for Ron: The driving force. With that in mind, it only made sense that the Commission decided to honor Ron Walker by naming the road to the section Walker Way.

“We wanted to honor not only his years of service but also his incredible work in seeing this ambitious project to completion,” said Patrick Linihan, Director of the Genesee County Parks. “He has been involved in almost every major project of the parks over 40 years. Ron is an integral part of everything we do here.

“He’s the walking history of the parks.”

Ron started with Genesee County Parks in 1977. Back then he was a horticulturalist, and since then he has had many more titles including Facilities Manager, Facilities Director, Project Manager and Deputy Director.

Walker retired in October 2022, but couldn’t stay away for long. Krapohl said his passion for the Parks keeps him coming back.

“One of these days, he will actually retire, find that rocking chair, and watch the birds,” he said. “That will be a sad day for all of us. I hope that day is not for a long time to come.”

Ron doesn’t like attention, so the Commission had to sneak up on him back in December in order to honor him with the naming of the road. So, the next chance you have to drive Walker Way, remember that it’s people like Ron Walker who make Genesee County Parks the biggest and best parks system in Michigan.

Walker Way is not just a road but a lifestyle. The “Walker Way” is to find something you’re passionate about and use your time and talent to make a difference for your community.

Thank you, Mr. Parks!

Click here to learn more about the Genesee County Parks and Wolverine Campground.