I first met Walter in 1975 when I began my career with Parks Canada and was preparing plans for developments at Fort George.  Over the years I worked closely with Walter on several occasions.  He was a storehouse of knowledge, had a keen sense of humour and was always a complete gentleman in the old sense of the word.  I am sorry to miss his service due to self isolation but my heart will be with the family on this sad occasion.

Ron Dale

Walter and I joined Parks Canada at the same time in 1969, he a seasoned public servant, I a novice.  We retired at the same time in 1991, and during the intervening years I found Walter to be a sage adviser, a wise administrator, and a person of great integrity, always calm in any crisis.  His love for Canadian history was only exceeded by his affection for his late wife, Elaine, and his family.  In retirement, he wrote and published historical works, was a very competent artist, and traveled extensively.  He was a kindly man and a true gentleman, and I will never forget that unfailing smile.  Walter lived life to the fullest.  Our sincere condolences to the Haldorson family.   

Mr. Haldorson was a fair boss and did not make decisions lightly. 
The Fort and historical accuracy was close to his heart and very important to him. 
We have met socially for coffee after retirement and we had many interesting and enjoyable conversations. 
My sincere condolences to his family.

While Walter was the Superintendent at Fort George National Historic Site, he was influential in the formation of the Friends of Fort George in 1988.  Volunteers, across Canada, forming community co-operating associations to work in concert with Parks Canada’s national historic sites and parks staff was a new concept in 1988 and viewed with some trepidation by the administration.  Walter invited the Niagara-on-the-Lake community to become involved with Niagara’s historic sites including Fort George, Fort Mississauga, Brock’s Monument, the Lakeshore Properties and the Commons. Walter, his staff and the enthusiastic Friends’ volunteers rode the complex waves of the bureaucracy to make the organization viable and to prove to be of benefit to the site and our community. Walter’s favoured reaction was to respond to new ideas or suggestions with a positive “no”, and then follow up with careful discussion on how to implement the new concepts. He had a tendency to fidget with elastics and paper clips while mulling over the viability of a project, and every now and then a small projectile across the desk would punctuate his comments.  His encouragement and support helped to set the foundation for the Friends’ student employment initiatives, Canada Day Celebrations and many other special and commemorative events these past 32 years.  We bid adieu to an old “Friend” and gentleman.  Our sincere condolences to his family. 


I had the privilege of working with Walter at Parks Canada from 1975 until his retirement. Walter was a true gentleman and a man of complete integrity! He was respected by all who came into contact with him. He was a great boss, and I have many wonderful memories of working with him. As the Superintendent of Niagara National Historic Sites, Walter was responsible for many positive accomplishments, and it was an honour for me to work with him, and call him a true friend! My sincere condolences to the Haldorson family, and may the Good Lord comfort you during this difficult time! 

Steve & family, our sincere condolences on the passing of your father/grandfather.  Our thoughts are with you during this sad time.
Vera & Tim Henry

OBITUARY

Walter George Haldorson

25 December, 1930 – 11 March, 2020

Hulse & English Funeral Home & Chapel

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Updates

Services