Fernando Walters

Fernando Andres Walters, lovingly known as “Walter” of East Harlem, New York City passed away on Saturday, March 8th, 2025 at the age of 92. Born on December 3rd, 1932 in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, he moved to New York City at the age of 12 and briefly resided in the Bronx before making El Barrio his home.

Walter lived his life to the fullest, on his terms; he did a tour in Korea, but not even the US Army could contain him. He worked for many years as an elevator operator at Donna Karan Inc. until his retirement in 1996. His favorite pastimes were: watching the Yankees, Western movies, and boxing matches; listening to salsa; spending time with his family; and hanging with the old timers. Walter also loved cooking and was especially known for his famous coquito, chicharron de pollo, and his steak & eggs.

He is preceded in death by his wife Maria Walters; his daughter Griselda Medina; and nephew Jordan Velazquez.

He is survived by:

Six children – Deborah Santoni; Fernando Andres Walters Jr. and his wife Jill; Quenna Walters; Tasha Walters, Jasmin Walters, and Dominique Walters. Honorable acknowledgement of his bonus son, Emanuel Santiago.

Nine grandchildren – Jordan Medina, Kira Santoni, Giovani Santoni, Raven Gardiner, Rylee Hall, Mia Morrison, Hunter Walters, Noah Walters, and Zander Walters.

One sibling – Carmen Jenny Walters.

Eight in-laws – Judy Velazquez, Emily Velazquez, Carlos Velazquez, Raoul Velazquez, Raymond Velazquez, Armando Velazquez, and Lizzette Castro.

Fourteen nieces and nephews – Juan Perez, Christopher Velazquez, Matthew Velazquez, Corey Velazquez, Kyle Velazquez, Brianna Velazquez, Josh Velazquez, Max Velazquez, Sophia Velazquez, Kendra Castro, Raymond Mora, Saadia Walters, Towana Becerril, Tony Becerril

Two pets – Charlie and Dexter.

A visitation for Fernando will be held Thursday, March 13, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Chas. Peter Nagel Funeral Directors, 352 East 87th Street, Apt 1824, New York, NY 10128. A Funeral Mass at Saint Cecilia & Holy Agony Church will occur Friday, March 14, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at External Service Location, 120 E 106th St, New York, NY 10029.