Walter H. Freytag

He was born on April 19, 1931, in Napoleon, Ohio, to the late Herman and Regina (Bockleman) Freytag. Walt graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in engineering and enjoyed a distinguished career as an aerospace engineer. He retired from Honeywell after working on many important aerospace and defense projects, including the Apollo, Space Shuttle, Space Station, and Minuteman programs. Walt proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy.

Walt married the love of his life, Karol, in 1966. They remained inseparable until his passing. Together, they enjoyed traveling, music, and, most of all, spending time with family. Their love of travel took them on many adventures in their motorhome, “Sweet Pea.” They spent many months on the road traveling throughout North America including a memorable journey to Alaska.

Walt was a gifted musician who loved to share his talents with others. He played the trombone and was active in the Tampa Bay area music scene. His vocal talents were also enjoyed by the congregations at Grace Lutheran Church and Trinity Presbyterian Church. His faith was an important part of his life, and he gave generously of his time to his church.

Walt was a devoted husband, stepfather, and grandfather. Although Cathy and Brad were his stepchildren, Walt was truly a father to them in every sense of the word. He cherished his family and especially treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren, Wyatt and Rachael.

Walt was preceded in death by his beloved parents and six of his seven siblings, as well as his son-in-law, Thomas Chambers.

He is survived by his loving wife, Karol; children, Bradley Creger (Louisa Shingler) and Cathy Chambers; grandchildren, Wyatt Creger and Rachael Creger; and his brother, Ronald Freytag (Mary).

Please join us on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Sylvan Abbey Funeral Home in Clearwater, Florida, for visitation from 1–2 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Walt’s Life at 2 p.m. A committal service with Navy honors will immediately follow at Sylvan Abbey Memorial Park.

Walt’s family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the caregivers at Home Instead for the many years of care they provided, and to Suncoast Hospice for the compassion and support shown to Walt and his family during his final days.

The Freytag Family invites you to make donations in Walt’s memory to Suncoast Hospice.

Kind condolences may be offered in our “Add a Memory” section below.