Walter B. Kirkwood Jr.

Walter B. Kirkwood, Jr., 95, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 69 years, Mona (née Dausman), proud father of Mark, Lisa, and Mike, beloved grandfather of Tyler (Emily), Calvin, Jeremy, Chase (Calista), Dr. Lauren Kirkwood-Johnson (Chris), Jordan, Braden, and great-grandfather of Hayden, Connor, and Sia.

Born in Tipton, Indiana, on June 24, 1930, Walter graduated from Tipton High School in 1948 and Indiana University in 1952, followed by two years of service in the U.S. Air Force. He went on to live a life defined by professionalism, civic leadership, and steadfast dedication to his alma mater.

Walter enjoyed a distinguished four-decade career in banking, beginning with American Fletcher National Bank and culminating as Head of Community and Governmental Affairs for Bank One Indiana. His expertise and integrity earned him statewide and national respect. He served as Chairman for both the Government Relations Committee for the Association of Bank Holding Companies and the American Bankers Association Legislative Liaison Committee, where his leadership contributed to significant legislative reform of the Glass–Steagall Act.

Equally devoted to civic service, Walter played a central role in some of Indiana’s most celebrated traditions and initiatives. A member of the 500 Festival Associates for over a decade, he served as Parade Chairman for many years and was President of the Festival in 1977. His civic reach extended further as President of the Indianapolis Athletic Club, Chairman and member of the Indianapolis 500 Citizens Speedway Committee, and as part of the Indiana Sports Corporation, where he contributed to the Pan American Games and was involved in efforts that brought the Indianapolis Colts to the city.

Walter’s lifelong bond with Indiana University was a cornerstone of his life. He served 21 years on the IU Alumni Association Board, including a term as President, and was an active member of the IU Indianapolis Board of Advisors, IU School of Business Executive Council, IU Foundation, IU Varsity Club and Hoosier Hundred. A proud Sigma Nu, he contributed extensively to both the Sigma Nu Fraternity and its alumni association. An avid sports fan, his enduring support of Indiana University athletic programs earned him numerous honors, including the “I” Association’s Z. G. Clevenger Award for outstanding contributions and Fifty-Year I-Man recognition.

In addition to his banking and university leadership, Walter served on numerous boards including United Way, WFYI Channel 20, United Hospital Services, Commission for Downtown, and Indiana 211, where he was instrumental in bringing to fruition statewide access to non-emergency services.

Walter’s many contributions were recognized with prestigious honors and awards, among them the Key to the City of Indianapolis from Mayor William Hudnut, and two SAGAMORE of the WABASH awards by Governor Evan Bayh.

Approaching life with dedication, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility to give back, Walter touched countless lives—whether in the boardroom, at civic events, or sharing a story among friends. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, integrity, and service.

As we fondly reflect on some memories, we loved running to meet him at the corner as he came from work to ride the last block with him, the joy of late night donuts he brought home after bowling league, the numerous trips between his den and the kitchen to grab a couple Oreo’s at a time, walking into the family room filled with a cloud of his pipe smoke….he will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lettie V. and Walter Sr., and his brother, Maurice R.

Our family is deeply appreciative for the loving and attentive caregiving Walt received from the teams at both Sunrise Senior Living and Paradigm Health. We will be forever grateful.

A private family service is planned. In lieu of flowers or donations, we’d love to hear a favorite story or memory of Walt via the Leppert memorial website.