Olene S. Walker, a trailblazer in Utah politics and the state's first female governor, passed away from natural causes on November 28, 2015. Born in Ogden, Utah, Walker held multiple advanced degrees from Brigham Young University, Stanford University, and the University of Utah.
Throughout her career, Walker served in various high-ranking roles, including a term as majority whip in the Utah House of Representatives between 1981 and 1989. She also served as Utah's first woman lieutenant governor from 1993 to 2003 alongside Governor Michael O. Leavitt.
During her tenure as lieutenant governor, Walker spearheaded initiatives regarding healthcare reform, workforce development, and education programs. She played a critical role in the establishment of the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and chaired the Workforce Task Force, which led to the creation of the Utah Department of Workforce Services.
As Utah’s 15th governor and its first woman to hold the office, Walker focused on community development, health care, housing, and education. Her efforts included proposing comprehensive reforms to the state tax code and advocating for student funding. The Olene Walker Housing Trust Fund was named in her honor.
In 2012, she established the Olene S. Walker Institute of Politics & Public Service at Weber State University to promote public service and community engagement.
Walker received numerous honors for her contributions, including being named the Salt Lake Tribune's 2003 Utahn of the Year and receiving the WSU Emeriti Lifetime Achievement award.
She is survived by her husband, Myron Walker, seven children, a sister, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Funeral services were scheduled for December 4, 2015, at the Canyon Rim Stake Center in Salt Lake City.
