Uncle Wally was a central figure all my life. Steadfast. A pillar.

He was consistent, calm, supportive and dependable in a way that proved his measure beyond most men in this world.

Always working on projects. Always figuring things out. Always growing, evolving and becoming more wise.

He was there for family vacations when I was younger and older; holidays large and small; long drive up and down California; projects at home. 

He loved pizza, ice cream, apple pie and lasagna. He made a great spaghetti sauce.

Uncle Wally had a quiet yet profound effect on those around him. He was a better grandfather to my stepson than my stepson’s own grandparents. He was a better father figure to my wife than her own father. He listened. He helped. He was one of the first of our family to hold my beautiful daughter.

Understated, humble, deeply competent and intelligent, and quietly generous. He did not need recognition to do the right thing.

He faced life’s challenges with stoicism and dignity and I watched him grow softer, and more thoughtful over the years. He was always learning, always evolving and always becoming a better version of himself.

His relationship with Aunt Brianne was one we could all look up to. A great team through our whole lives. Great people to have on our side. Their relationship was the kind that most people hope for but rarely ever achieve. An example we could all look to in our own lives.

It’s hard to accept that someone who felt so permanent could suddenly be gone.

I will always picture him in motion; working on the house, fixing a car, helping family… and always being present in the moment while having eyes on everyone’s futures.

Uncle Wally's gravity held many people together across generations and locations around the world, from a tiny little corner of San Diego.

I will miss him deeply.

Thank you for everything, Uncle Wally. We love you.

It was just the middle of April. Walter was fixing our life and the kitchen. I was just a few weeks ago. Walter . was warm-hearted , kind and thoughtful . Condolences to you, Briann thanks for all your family members. I only knew Walter for short time,, but he made a soft impression on my son JP., My wife Lydia, and to me. Mike  1605

I will always remember my cousin Wally’s kindness and humor.  I have so many great memories of Wally over the years, including the time we spent together in the Fourth Medical Battalion as Hospital Corpsmen (I always thought of the two of us as Hawkeye and Trapper John).  And I’ll never forget the laughter and good times during our cross country trip in the 1970’s from California to New York—3,000 miles never went by so fast!  There are way too many great memories to try to catalogue.  You will be sorely missed, Wally.  Love to Brianne and the family.

Dear Brianne and Family,

I am so sorry for your loss. The sudden passing of your husband and father has left all of us in shock, and our hearts are with you during this difficult time.

He was a truly remarkable man—quiet, humble, and deeply private, yet always the first to step forward when someone needed help. His kindness was never loud, but it was constant and genuine. He lived with integrity, free of pretense or excess, and that simplicity spoke volumes about his character.

Above all, his love for you, Brianne, was unmistakable. He cared for you with devotion and tenderness, always putting your needs first. It was a beautiful partnership, and anyone who witnessed it could see how deeply he cherished you.

He leaves behind a legacy not of grand gestures, but of steady compassion, quiet strength, and unwavering love. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We share in your grief and stand with you in remembrance of a life so well lived.

With heartfelt sympathy,
Jim and Molly Erskine

Wally was a wonderfully understated gentleman, that I think everyone admired. He is in heaven now with his father, mother, sister and those that loved him. Gods speed.

OBITUARY

Walter Joseph Urtnowski

August 16, 1949 – April 30, 2026

Goodbody Mortuary

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