Walton, Kenneth

VISITATION:

9-10 a.m., Saturday, June 18 at Zion Lutheran Church, 110 E. Grand Ave., Chippewa Falls

SERVICE:

10 a.m., Saturday, June 18 at Zion Lutheran Church, 110 E. Grand Ave., Chippewa Falls

Kenneth P. Walton, retired Special Agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, age 76, formerly of Chippewa Falls, died May 25, 2016 at his home in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

He was born in 1939 to Alvina (Schnese) and Kenneth A. Walton. He graduated from Chi-Hi in 1957.

During high school, Ken enlisted in the National Guard and served for two years before serving in the U.S. Air Force from 1957 until his honorable discharge in 1961.

After his military service, Ken continued his education at UWEC, where he graduated at the top of his class. In 1985, he received the Distinguished Alumni Achievement Award from the University.

Ken had a notable career working in the FBI. His career spanned over 24 years, and many states. He was key in many high-profile investigations during his tenure, including the 1981 NYC Brinks robbery, and the indictment of many crooked judges in Detroit. He had his own style which earned him respect from his colleagues and because of his tenacity, he quickly climbed in rank. For many years, he worked as the deputy director and was the "No. 2 man" at FBI headquarters in New York City. He was later assigned to be the director of the Detroit FBI, where he was nicknamed "The Cape Crusader." He retired in 1989.

He is survived by his wife, Charlotte of Albuquerque; sons, Paul and Grant Walton; a daughter, Samantha Walton; a brother, Jim Walton of Chippewa Falls; grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother, Terry.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 18 at Zion Lutheran Church, Chippewa Falls with the Rev. T. Clint Stark officiating. Military honors by the Chippewa Falls Patriotic Council will take place immediately following the service at the church. Interment will be at a later date in Forest Hill Cemetery, Chippewa Falls.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service Saturday at the church.

Memorials in Ken's honor may be designated to Zion Lutheran Church, Chippewa Falls.