A Reflection by Dr. Fuller on the Life of John Walton

Milwaukee, WI (June 28, 2005) – It is difficult for me to put into words the sense of loss I feel because of the death of John Walton. John was one of the nicest people I have ever met. He was a staunch, unbending warrior in the battle for parental choice. I once asked John why he supported this movement. He said that poor children were getting a raw deal and he wanted to do something about it and he was in a position to do so. Here was a man who could have lived a life of leisure. Instead, he put his money, his intellect, and his energy into the effort to empower low income and working class families to be able to choose the best learning environment for their children. John Walton and I were friends. He believed in BAEO. He believed in the Charter School Leadership Council. He supported our missions. We are of course not the only organizations that owe their existence and capacity to do the work of supporting parental choice to John Walton and WFF. Because of him there are thousands of our children who have a better future. Because of him there is a movement out here that must honor his memory by working harder to advance our cause. I will never forget this kind and decent man. I thank God for allowing him to be in our midst. He has obviously left us way too soon. But his spirit will live on within those of us who believe in our movement. Thank you John and God bless you. You will be missed. Howard

Back