Valorie F. Walker

May 6, 1953 -

Jan 30, 2026

Valorie F. Walker, 72, passed away on Jan. 30, 2026, at Providence Hospital after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer. A devoted dog lover, Valorie continued to pursue her passion for dog sports - training, competing and mentoring others even while undergoing treatment. She was a cherished and respected member of the dog community and will be deeply missed by fellow competitors, friends, family and former colleagues.

Born on May 6, 1953, and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, Valorie graduated from East High in 1971. She earned her degree in business administration with a concentration in finance from the University of Notre Dame in 1975, graduating with honors, and later became a Certified Public Accountant.

Valorie began her professional career with an international public accounting firm, where she worked for seven years, followed by five years in commercial banking. In 1987, she was appointed Deputy Director of Finance for both the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority and the Alaska Energy Authority. In this dual role, she helped facilitate the financing and refinancing of major industrial, manufacturing and energy projects across Alaska, including the Red Dog Mine, the Bradley Lake Hydroelectric Project and the Snettisham Hydroelectric Project. She retired in 2013, and is fondly remembered as an exceptional mentor and colleague.

Valorie was especially passionate about the sport of dog agility. One of the early exhibitors in Alaska, she earned numerous titles and championships while competing locally and nationally. Beyond her own accomplishments, she was a trusted resource on agility rules and operation, and a generous mentor to others. Her volunteer spirit was evident in countless ways, including her thoughtful tradition of providing refreshments at trials.

She also competed successfully in Alaska Scent Work and FastCAT events at both the local and national levels.

Valorie was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Edna Mae Walker; and brother, Glenn Walker. She is survived by her brother, James Walker; lifelong partner, Chuck Whitney; many close friends; and her beloved family of dogs.

A celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at Sirius Ranch, 6151 E. Upper Court in Palmer, Alaska. All who were fortunate to know Valorie - members of the dog community, family, friends and former colleagues - are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Friends of Pets.