John Walter

John Walter, 88, beloved father and grandfather, was called to his eternal resting place on Tuesday, January 29, 2019.

He entered this world on May 18, 1930 in Garrett, Indiana; born to John and Bessie Walter. Predeceased by his wife and best friend Norma Walter and his loving sister Meredith Hauck. He is fondly remembered by his sons, John Walter (Nikia), Jeffrey Walter (Jacqueline) and Joe Walter (Kim); his grandchildren, Marcy Walter, Kristy Walter, Jennice Walter, Jade Walter, Jeffrey Walter, Amy Linman and Kelly Korth; as well as his six great-grandchildren, Samantha, Jude, Jamy, Jaxson, Kase, and Benecio.

John proudly served in the army during the Korean War while stationed in Panama and received the National Defense Service Medal. John, was a three sport athlete at Indiana University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts. He was a tremendous fan of Indiana basketball and would regularly be seen dressed in his favorite red IU sweater. John began his fulfilling career in the funeral services industry and continued after he and his family moved to Silver Spring, Maryland, before embarking on a career with the Veterans Administration Hospital System. In 1974, John was given the opportunity to be the Asst. Procurement Officer for the Albuquerque VA Hospital. As a proud Veteran, he accepted the position and his family followed shortly after, where Norma continued her career as a nurse. John was an accomplished wood worker and is most affectionately remembered for creating whimsical toys for his grandchildren. He would often be found in his study full of maps and memorabilia, noting the meaningful friendships he had made throughout his lifetime interest in ham radio (W5VGC and K9AEK). Building radios and the connections he made was a favorite pastime, among many, that he loved to discuss while relaxing on his porch with family and friends. While enjoying their retirement, John and his wife Norma purchased a motor coach and visited their children and grandchildren regularly. They relished in the adventure of traveling together filling the map and their hearts one state at a time.  Later in life, John could be found enjoying the sounds of the Big Bands and Swing music while dancing the night away at his local senior center.

A private memorial service is planned followed by interment in Santa Fe National Cemetery.  Memorial donations in memory of John Edwin Walter can be made to The American Diabetes Association, donations.diabetes.org.