JOSEPH “JOEY” G. WALTER

Joseph “Joey” G. Walter, 88, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 26, 2023 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was born on July 18, 1934 in DeKalb, Illinois the son of the late Joseph E. and Lucille (Faivre) Walter. Also preceded in death by brother Michael Walter, brother-in-law James Barr, and son-in-law Todd Yopst.

He is survived by his beloved wife Mary Jane (Umbdenstock) of 64 years; six daughters: Anne (Pat) Balsley, Marcia (Steve) Wessels, Barb (Glenn) Bolander, Mary Kay (Mark) Biernacki, Debbie (Rick) Boesche, and Janice (Chuck) Benson; 19 grandchildren and 26 great grandchildren. Loving brother of Mary Lou (Jeff) Strack, Janet (the late James) Barr, Richard Walter, Bill (Jo) Walter, the late Michael (Dianne) Walter, Jim (Sue) Walter, and Paul (Lisa) Walter.

Joseph graduated from DeKalb High School in 1953 and served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956. He was united in marriage to Mary Jane Umbdenstock on January 24, 1959 in Maple Park, Illinois. He raised his family in DeKalb, Illinois where he farmed for over 40 years. He and Mary Jane moved to the Salem, Missouri area in 1996 where they enjoyed their retirement while being active in the church and various community organizations. They moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado in 2022. 

Joe was generous, spirited, honest and direct. He was a kind and loyal friend, always willing to help those in need. He was a man of quiet faith; leading by example and sharing his love of Jesus in simple, concrete ways. Joe was a master steward of God’s creation, from his years of farming in Illinois to his beautifully manicured, park-like estate in Missouri. He was a gifted creator; designing and building furniture, airplanes and any item that was needed to get the job done. He taught his daughters to be strong, independent women; to love nature, respect everyone and be responsible for your own decisions. He adored each of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him great joy and many smiles.

A funeral mass will be held on May 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church in DeKalb, Illinois followed by interment at St. Mary’s Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mary’s School in DeKalb, Illinois.

Arrangements by Anderson Funeral Home, DeKalb. For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.

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