Walter Douglas Kent Layton

A devoted family man and retired Navy veteran, Walter Layton, born on March 12, 1940, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2023. Walter was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Wanda Layton (née MacKinley).

He is survived by his children, Deborah Ragbir (Moe), Kent Layton(Adriana), Belinda Weiler(John), Tracey Daub (Rick), his grandchildren Rachel, Elizabeth, Mackenzie, Nathan, Sarah, great granddaughter Emma, and brother Terry(Debbie).

Lying about his age, Walter eagerly joined the Canadian Navy at 17 and embraced travelling the world while serving his country. He was present for many historical events during his military career including the hostilities and violence of the Cuban Missile Crisis and Bay of Pigs. In Walter’s retirement years, he was honoured as a guest speaker in his granddaughter’s high school Canadian History class. His recounting of these events during his military career captivated the students and faculty.

Walter and Wanda married in April 1962, and started a family. Retiring from his naval career in 1976, Walter moved his young family to British Columbia. In his new civilian life, Walter ventured into sales and enjoyed many successes. As the economical challenges of the 80’s affected everyone, Walter once again moved his family to Ontario, settling in Kitchener-Waterloo.

Walter successfully bred, trained, and showed several champion Doberman Pinschers and Lhasa Apsos in the Canadian Kennel Club. The ardent animal lover that he was, Walter could never ignore an animal in need and was always willing to find space in his heart and home for another helpless cat or some ducks and a crazy rooster.

A jack of all trades, Walter constructed a home from the ground up, found joy in fixing cars, created many sweet and savoury delights in the kitchen among many other useful skills.

Walter Layton lived a life of resilience and gratitude, embracing each moment despite its challenges. Known as Papa, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him.

Cremation has taken place. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations would be appreciated to a charity of your choice and may be arranged through Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre, Kitchener, (519-743-8900). Online condolences at www.westmountfuneralchapel.com