Walter, or Bud as his family called him, was born in Detroit to Wally and Mary Ann Bortman on September 5th, 1975. He grew up in the suburbs of Detroit and 20 years ago led the way for his whole family to move to California.
He worked as a Pipe Fitter for the UA Local 582 and was very proud of his work there. More than just a son, a brother, a father, a cousin, a pipefitter, and a spin instructor, Walter was a runner. But he was not just any runner. He listed his accomplishments as. 26.2 x 11, 50k x 8, 50m x 1, 100 k x 3, 100 m x 2, Baker to Vegas 120 Solo Run, not mention countless other ½ marathons, 10k and 5k runs and a race across Sri Lanka with a marathon a day for 5 days. He was loved and admired by many.
He lived a short hard life. He battled with addiction for over 25 years and finally found a way to stay sober and stay at peace through running. These runs were not just for him; he was always the cheerleader, the supporter, and the pacer to so many others. Walter was very open about his addiction and always ready to lend an ear to someone suffering, those in recovery and their family members. He gave them HOPE and truly changed people’s lives. Walter gave 100% to everything he did. Now he is gone and we have to try to remember all the good and not carry his legacy in sadness.
Walter is survived by his children Olivia, Max and Kennedy, parents Wally and Mary Ann and sisters Wendy & Jennifer.
Walter may you RIP Run in Peace forever.
A Celebration of his amazing full life will be held Fairhaven Memorial Services Chapel, 27856 Center Drive, Mission Viejo, CA 92692, Saturday 8th June 2019 commencing at 1pm, a reception will immediately follow.
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