Mendham Native, Wildlife Photographer Dies at 52

When Steven Walker realized his love for animals, photography, and traveling could all be put together, his life was complete.

Walker died recently at the age of 52.

Walker graduated Mendham High School and was consistently recognized all-star player. He was recruited to Wake Forest University on a soccer scholarship and later coached youth soccer in Mendham and Basking Ridge. He also worked at Mendham Racquet Club.

When Walker took an extended trip to Australia, he learned of his lifelong passion for photography, and followed it up by becoming an avid animal photographer. He worked as a photo editor for a National Geographic photographer, and was himself the official photographer for the Philadelphia Zoo and the Audubon Society’s Project Puffin in Maine.

Walker spent the last 12 years as an Auto Salesman and Certified Brand Ambassador at Ray Catena Porsche in Edison. He is survived by his mother and her husband, two sisters, a brother and large extended family.

Memorial donations can be made to Project Puffin by going here.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, Sept. 18 at the Hilltop Presbyterian Church in Mendham.

Photo courtesy Bailey Funeral Homes.