LEWISTON, Maine — Jason Walker was known as a protector of his family. So, it was no surprise to family and friends that he was trying to protect others when he lost his life.
Walker was one of 18 victims killed in a mass shooting in Lewiston on Oct. 25. His best friend since kindergarten, Michael Deslauriers II, also was killed that night. The two of them were reportedly protecting their families while charging the shooter in an attempt to stop him.
“They made sure their wives and several young children were under cover then they charged the shooter,” Deslauriers' father, also Michael, said in an online post.
“I was not the least bit surprised to hear that he and his best friend since kindergarten lost their lives trying to protect others,” Deslauriers' sister, Vicki Deslauriers Roy, who also posted online. “I take comfort in knowing that they went together.”
Walker worked for the Sabattus Historical Society, with Deslauriers' father. The organization said Walker volunteered and helped capture the personal stories of senior citizens in their community.
"He freely volunteered his time and expertise to our society to capture the history of our town," they posted on their Facebook page.
According to his obituary, Walker, the son of John W. and Diane, joined the Marine National Guard after high school. He worked in building trades, doing construction, siding and driving tractor trailers.
In addition to his parents, Walker is survived by his wife Kathleen and two sons, Collin and Adam. He also leaves behind a brother, two sisters and several nieces and nephews.
His obituary says: "Jason was a selfless and giving friend and helped out others whether physically, spiritually, or financially, whenever needed. Jason was highly protective of his wife and his children and tasked himself with ensuring all were taken care of for life’s major needs."
Friends and family are invited to attend visitation for Walker on Nov. 11 from 9 a.m. to noon. at the Fortin Group, 217 Turner Street in Auburn, Maine. A memorial service will be held at noon. The service will be live streamed here: https://tinyurl.com/4a8fa4wx.
The service will be followed by a committal ceremony at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Sabattus, Maine, at 2:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, Walker's family is asking those to make a donation in Jason's memory, to those who lost loved ones or were injured in the shooting. You can do so here: Lewiston Victims' GoFundMe.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.