yishdioh

Maxine Hamana Walker of Springville, Utah, passed away Saturday, November 4, 2006. She was the backbone of her family and led the women in singing backup for GRAYHAWK, the family's drum group. Maxine was an excellent singer and had also been a great dancer in Women's Southern Traditional style. She sometimes incorporated her Hopi heritage into her dance regalia.

She and her husband, Curtis Walker, Sr. (Omaha), were the most giving and gracious people you would ever meet. They loved being part of GRAYHAWK because they could share their love of Native music with everyone around them and because it was something they could do together as a family. Curtis and their children will continue sing in her honor.

We miss Maxine dearly and I regret that I won't be able to sing with her at future powwows. The news of her passing came during the powwow at Utah Valley State College where GRAYHAWK was singing. It was remarkable to see the support of everyone there, reaching out to help and comfort the family.