Walter Henry Weitendorf
May 22, 2013
Walter Henry Weitendorf
December 20, 1920 – May 22, 2013
Peacefully at his residence in his 93rd year. Predeceased by his wife Lily with whom he partnered in life for 63 years. Beloved father and cherished uncle of Lois, Janice, Bruce and Robin. Loving father-in-law of Michael Kelly and Tom McCormick. Proud and devoted grandfather of Kyle, Devon, Sarah and David. Predeceased by his sister Lydia and brothers Art, Arnie and Jimmy. Wally was born in Hanover, Ontario and passed away in London, Ontario where he lived independently, yet enjoyed the supportive staff at Inspirit Residences in recent years. He was our family hero as well as a proud citizen of Canada. Wally joined the RCAF in October 1942, with initial training at Camp Borden, Ontario, where he also met his wife to be. Advanced flying training occurred in England where he joined an active Lancaster Bomber Squadron, eventually being selected for Pathfinder 405 squadron duties. Flight Lt. Weitendorf ended his operational activities on a humanitarian note, by dropping food to the Dutch as well as returning POW’s to Britain. He never lost his enthusiasm for life, his interest in people, and his determination to live each day fully. This inspired everyone who knew him. He often worked quietly in the background to provide loving guidance and help to his grandchildren and nieces as he noticed a need. Innovation was a hallmark of his life and career. Wally worked on the highly complicated jet engine components of the Avro Arrow in the 1950’s. Later in his career, he became a popular teacher at George Brown College in Toronto. He always had time for students who needed extra attention. He had a lifelong love of music, joining a choir in boyhood, becoming a member of the Barbershop Quartet and maintaining a collection of music. Wally’s heart always centred around the family cottage he built, along with his wife Lily, on Four Mile Lake. He worked tirelessly to create this haven for his family, at the place he loved the most. He took exceptional joy in seeing life long memories created here and the legacy he left to his grandchildren, nieces and nephews is everlasting. It will not be hard to celebrate his life. He will be profoundly missed, forever loved and leave a great void in the fabric of our family. A private family service will be held at a later date.
Leave a tribute for Walter Henry Weitendorf
Leave a tribute
(Donated to Canadian Cancer Society)
Lois, I'm very sorry to hear the passing of your Dad. May the many great memories help you and your family during this difficult time. John
Dear Lois and Tom, We are so sorry for your loss. Wally was an amazing man. What great things he accomplished in his life. We always enjoyed our chats with him. He will be missed.
Dear Weitendorf family, our deepest sympathy for your loss. We got to know Wally as the neighbour of our mom Gladys at Inspirit What a lovely, sweet man and always a pleasure to visit with. Wally was a true gentleman and a nice, helpful friend to my mother. I know Gladys will miss their little chats. I spoke to your dad last Saturday sitting in the lobby with that big smile on his face he always wore. He will be missed by all.
Dear Lois and Janice and families, So sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. We remember Uncle Walter fondly. He always had a smile on his face and a story to tell. He was a great encouragement to our dad Art, when he was in University hospital, awaiting heart surgery a few years back. He came to visit our dad quite often and our dad cherished those times very much. We know how difficult it is to lose someone who always could make you smile with a song or a silly joke. He was a lovely man and will be missed. May your wonderful memories be a comfort to you all. Love Auntie Joyce, Bob, Ron, Jim, Robyn, Susan, Lori and Jodi The Weitendorf Clan.
Lois: I am very sorry for your loss. I can see where you got your passion and zest for life. Enjoy and remember all these wonderful memories. Paul
Lois, Tom, Kyle, Devon and Sarah: we are so sadden for your loss. Wally was a wonderful, kind and gentle man. We have many good memories of him telling such interesting stories about his life. We were fortunate to have been able to spend time with him and yourselves at the cottage on Four Mile Lake, he always made us feel welcome. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Brenda, Bob and Family
Lois, Tom and family, we are very sorry for your loss. May your wonderful memories help comfort you at this sad time. Ron and Betty
Janice, Mike, David and Family: So sorry to hear about your Dad. I know you will miss him terribly, but can take comfort in the memories and spirit he left with you. He had a life to be celebrated. He was a great guy to everyone he met. Barb
Dear Janice, Mike, David and to the rest of your family...We were so sorry to hear the sad news. Thankfully we had the priviledge of meeting Walter in Calgary over the years. Lonnie's conversations with him about the war will not be forgotten. Our thoughts are with you all during this very difficult time. I hope you are all doing okay. Karen & Lonnie xoxo
Dear Janice and Lois. So sorry to hear of the passing of Wally. He was such a great person and was so enthusiastic in support of the 4-Mile lake clan. We were next door and enjoyed our relationship so much. We had such good times. It was a really nice to have known him. Our thoughts and prayer will be with you as you go through this tough time. John & June Healy
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
Dear Janice,Lois,Tom and all members of the family,I quite often think about you people,I have nothing but fond memories of my time in Canada,Janice,time with your Mum,crawling underneath that corolla with your Dad,the cottage/Janice watersking in the fall,Main st,etc.I have only just got onto this facebook thing and I thought I wonder what Janice is up to these days so I punched in your name and your Dad's obituary came up.Wally really was a special guy.So sorry to hear of your loss.My thoughts and prayers are with you all.God Bless you all,regards Simon,Young,N.S.W.Austalia.
~ Simon Parkes