Age 75, passed away suddenly March 27, 2007 in Tucson, Ariz. Born in Tacoma and raised in Wilkeson, Wash.

After serving in the Navy during the Korean War from 1951 to 1955, he eventually settled in West Seattle. After working 35 years in the material test lab for the Boeing Co., he retired. In retirement he enjoyed traveling to many countries and parts of the United States with his wife.

He enjoyed tending his dahlias, gardening in his P-Patch, hiking, biking, birding and photography. He belonged to BEMS, Boeing Travel Club, The Museum of Flight and the Snokies. He was involved with Seattle's P-Patch program for 33 years in the Delridge area, where he grew many vegetables for his family and others.

His wit, kindness, caring and sense of humor will be missed by friends and family. Survived by his wife of 46 years, Betty, daughter Paula, son Darren, both of West Seattle, brother Warren (Pat) of Buckley, sister Nancy Belletto of Coupeville, brother-in-law Mel Mefford of Port Townsend and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Private services will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery.

Memorials in his name to Museum of Flight, Development Dept., 9404 E. Marginal Way S., Seattle, WA 98108-4097; Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, PO Box 19023, Seattle, WA 98109; the American Heart Association of King County (online); P-Patch Trust, P.O. Box 19748, Seattle, WA 98109. A celebration of life for Walter will be held in July.