Clarence Charles Walter

Clarence was born at home in Benton, Kansas, was baptized at Zion Lutheran Church, and graduated from Hillsboro High School in 1948. He worked at McDonnell Douglas Aerospace Manufacturing, then in the Kansas oil fields for several years before moving to California where he met his wife Patricia Johnson, a registered nurse. Clarence was called up for military service and joined the army to serve in the Korean Conflict. He and Patty were stationed in Panama serving two years together before discharge in 1953 when they returned stateside.

Clarence learned the cobbler trade from his uncle Henry Walter and developed a successful shoe repair business in Kansas before moving back to California. He set up his shop Gem Shoe Repair in Long Beach, and after 61 years Clarence retired at age 89 having passed on his skills and knowledge to his son Aaron.

A long-time member of First Lutheran Church Long Beach, Clarence served in many capacities on the Board from Deacon to Treasurer.

Clarence loved boating and took his family regularly to Lake Powell or Lake Havasu for weeks of water sports in the summer. His own fun was to be found in outfitting his LandNSea watercraft with customized changes, always striving to make it better.

After 42 years of marriage his beloved wife Patty passed away, and several years later Clarence found love again with his long-time partner Nancy Exley. Clarence and Nancy took fifteen cruises together covering Hawaii, Alaska, Mexico, the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

Clarence is preceded in death by his two brothers Harry Walter and Carl Walter, his sisters Esther Olivit, Elsie Herrington and Dorine Hand. He is survived by son Aaron Walter (Kim), daughter Diane Huntzinger (John), grandsons Zack Walter (Joanna), Cody Walter, Noah Walter, Jonathan Huntzinger (Joy), Matthew Huntzinger, and Joshua Huntzinger (Carly). In recent years Clarence delighted in seeing his great grandchildren Nathan Huntzinger, Christoff Huntzinger and Ryann Walter.

Arrangements are with Pacific View Mortuary in Corona Del Mar, CA and a graveside service for family and close friends is planned.