James F. “Knobby” Walsh (91) , Lt.Col. USAF , of Sun City, AZ, died Jan. 2, 2015. Born Oct. 17, 1923 in Chicago, IL to James F. and Edythe Walsh. Survived by daughter Linda Bayless (Chuck), brother Edward (deceased ’80), sisters Marilyn Ertl (George) and Sue McDonald (Bob), grandson Steve Bayless (Melissa), granddaughter Becky Rappold (Jason), great-grandchildren Brianna Bayless and Tyler Rappold and many nieces and nephews.
He was married to Margaret L. “Lou” Walsh (deceased ’96) for over 50 yrs. He was married to Katy Kuhn (deceased ’10) for 13 yrs. Knobby was in the Army Air Corp and the USAF for 25 yrs. He was a fighter pilot during WWII, The Korean War and Vietnam. He was stationed at Williams AFB (’55-’60) and later F-100 Commander 4515th Combat Crew Training Squadron until 1968.
He owned “Knobby Walsh Motors” in Glendale, AZ in the ’60’s and “Delta Tire Corral” for several years in the same location. Knobby and Lou loved traveling in their Sportscoach motorhome pulling a matching “little” car behind them.
He was a true fighter pilot to the end and still missed flying jets! He drove his car just like he flew – fast! His dedication and commitment to America generated a deep sense of pride and respect for the USA in his family and friends. We will all remember the fighter pilot and good natured man he was – keep flying Knobby! Services at Holy Cross Cemetery, Avondale, AZ, Saturday, 10:30 A.M., Jan. 31, 2015