Walter Jay Kemper

Walter Jay Kemper, 52, born on May 20th, 1967, passed away on April 4th, 2020, after a five and a half year battle against Multiple Myeloma. He passed away, peacefully, in the arms of his loving family.

Walter is survived by his beloved wife, Deanna; daughter, Stephanie; son, Aaron; daughter-in-law, Marin; father, James “Jim” Kemper; mother, Joan Kemper; father-in-law, Robert “Bob” Bean; mother-in-law, Lynette Robinson; four sisters, Suella, Alena, Connie, and Jessica; three brothers, Randy, Kyle, and Van; brother-in-law, Keith; sister-in-law, Debra; and many others whose lives he touched including nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, his lifelong best friend Philip Sanchez, and the entire Sanchez family. Walter was preceded in death by his younger sister Danae, and both paternal and maternal grandparents.

Walter was born and raised in Moses Lake, WA. Walter graduated from Moses Lake High School in 1985. He actively participated in multiple sports, in and outside of school, and set records in track and field. In 1987, Walter met the love of his life, Deanna. They decided to devote their lives to each other and got married in July of 1989, which began a beautiful marriage that flourished for more than 30 years. Shortly thereafter in 1991, Walter graduated with his Bachelor’s Degree in Electronics Engineering Technology from Devry University in Phoenix, AZ. From there, he would continue on to a nearly 30 year career as a Field Service Engineer (7 years with General Electric Medical and then 22 years with Philips Medical Systems).

In 1992, Walter and Deanna were blessed with their first child, Stephanie; followed by Aaron in 1996. In 1998, Walter and Deanna chose Chico, CA as their hometown; where they raised their children, made lifelong friends, and enjoyed the adventures of life for 21 happy years. In 2013, Aaron introduced his soon-to-be wife, Marin, to the family whom Walter loved like his own daughter. Walter, Deanna, and their kids chose to move to Spokane, WA in 2019 to be closer to family.

Walter’s greatest joy and accomplishments included being the best husband, father, son, brother, uncle, great uncle, and friend. Walter found a friend in everyone he met with his easy-going nature, love for life, humorous outlook, and love of seeing those around him happy and smiling.

When asked, those closest to Walter describe him as: inclusive, affectionate, intelligent, reliable, supportive, patient, one of a kind, warm, easy-going, lovable, open-minded, tough as nails, hard-working, family man, true gentleman, charming, loved all his kids (even the extra ones), strong, passionate, welcoming, humorous, adventurous, genuine, devoted, charismatic, warm hugs, handsome, awesome, compassionate, truly good, kind, fun-loving, loyal, loving, heart of gold, thoughtful, and an overall pretty amazing human being.

Walter was passionate about many things in his life, his family and friends most of all. He was happiest when spending time with his family and friends regardless of the activity. However, there were many other things he found joy in. Those who knew him know how much he loved his adorable dog, Cara, how proud he was of his 2004 Mustang Mach 1, his enjoyment for reading novels, his love of movies and television (especially everything Star Trek), how much he enjoyed playing board games, his delight with watching NASCAR drivers go fast and turn left, and that he was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan—a trait which he passed onto his wife and children. Walter was always young at heart and enjoyed an active lifestyle. He loved basketball, softball, football, running, snowboarding, paintballing, playing (winning) ping-pong, water and jet skiing, target shooting, and camping. He especially enjoyed Nerf Gun Wars with his great nephew, Devon.

Above all, Walter was most proud of his family and enjoyed every moment with them. He is and always will be greatly missed by everyone. He is a shining light in his family and a perfect example of compassion, unconditional love, and devotion.

Forever, for always, no matter what.

Walter cared most about his family and friends, and—most importantly—their safety; because of this a celebration of life will be held once it is safe for his loved ones to attend. Instead of sending flowers, the family believes Walter would ask that you do an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for someone in need of a smile.