Bill Walton

Age 80 of Hugo

Husband, Dad, Grandpa & Brother, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2025. Preceded in death by son, Justin; parents, Howard & Opal; brothers, Bob, Jim. Survived by his wife of 59 years, Jean; son Jake (Jen); grandchildren, Kaleb, Kylee; 4 siblings; many nieces, nephews, other relatives & friends.

Bill was born on May 5, 1945, in Glenburn, near Minot, North Dakota. Being raised on a farm, Bill developed a deep respect for the land and a lifelong love for animals. He graduated from Glenburn High School in 1963, and just a few years later, on June 4, 1966, married Beverly Jean Garner, in Osceola, Iowa. That same year, Bill was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he proudly served from 1966 to 1969, including a tour in Vietnam from June 1967 to June 1968. He was honorably discharged in August 1969 at Fort Hood, Texas.

In 1971, Bill began his 24-year career with the St. Paul Police Department, serving until his retirement in 1995. During that time, he also launched Walton & Sons Construction, specializing in insulation and home renovation. Bill also owned and operated a recycling business.

In 1979, Bill and Jean purchased land in White Bear Township and started a hobby farm, where Bill’s passion for animals flourished. In 1990, they founded Animals of Walton’s Hollow, a beloved pony ride and petting zoo business that brought joy to families across the metro. Whether driving his team of cherished Norwegian Fjord horses or tending to his beloved Great Pyrenees dogs, Highlander cattle and mini baby donkeys, Bill’s deep connection with animals was evident to all who knew him.

After retiring, Bill and Jean enjoyed traveling. He was a member of the White Bear and Hugo Lions Clubs, Forest Lake American Legion, and the Manes and Tails Harness Club.

Bill’s life will be celebrated with a service at 6 PM Thursday, July 10^th with visitation beginning at 4 PM at Roberts Family Funeral Home, Forest Lake. A private Interment will take place Fort Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations that will be made to a local cause in Bill’s honor.