Walter Jacob Walkowicz

Born March 13th, 1934 to Wanda and Jacob Walkowicz, Walt lived his rambunctious young life in Rochester, NY with his siblings Eleanore, Virginia, Richard and Edward along with many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends nearby.

As a young boy, Walt helped to provide for his widowed mother and family by working at a local farm picking strawberries and as a paperboy. Walt met the love of his life, Nancy, as a senior in High School at a High School dance. Walt and Nancy instantly fell in love and happily married on May 16, 1953. Walt started working at Eastman Kodak right after high school. He served active duty in the Army engineering corps and in the reserves and while serving in Germany Nancy and Walt had their first son, Scott.

Upon returning to the States, Walt resumed his employment at Kodak and earned his degree from Rochester Institute of Technology. While in Rochester, they welcomed their second son, Robert. In 1971 the Walkowicz family accepted a transfer with Kodak to Windsor and settled in Loveland.

Walt created a commendable presence in the Loveland community and was adored by so many. He served on Loveland City Council , The police Advisory Board and was an active Board Member and Chairman of the Loveland Housing Authority for over 30 years as well as numerous other committees in the community and city. Walt was a beloved member of the Loveland Men's Golf Club. He was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend to many.

Family was of the utmost importance to Walt. Known as “Poppy”, his grandkids and great-grandkids adored him as he was a very active and cherished part of their lives. He was known to all as a true gentleman, a proud patriot, a devoted husband and loyal friend. He won many bowling trophies earlier in his life. He became an avid golfer. He created many great memories playing poker and attending social events with friends. He took much pride in working on his roses and manicured yard in his later years. He was a kind, gentle, easygoing, handsome man with a smile that would light up the room. Everyone Walt came in contact with instantly felt his warmth, love and kindness. He had a sweet sense of humor and had an amazing life and family. Walt and Nancy were fortunate to enjoy traveling to Europe, Hawaii, Canada, and many states.

Walt is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Nancy, and their two sons, Scott (Melia), and Robert (Donna), grandchildren Jessica James (Christopher), Jacob (Taylor) and Matthew, great-grandchildren Thomas James, Dominic James, Rory James, Harper Walkowicz, Hayden Walkowicz, Hadley Walkowicz, Jackson Walkowicz and Gracelynn Walkowicz. Walt is also survived by his sister Eleanore Ridley (Floyd) of Phelps, NY, brother Edward McManus (Karen) of Washington DC, close extended family, sister-in-laws (who considered him the brother they never had) Jeanette Wenner (Larry) of Rochester, NY, Elaine Sacks (Charlie) of Rochester NY, and Carol Wiseman (Forest) of Fort Myers, FL and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Jacob, mother Wanda, brother Richard, and sister Virginia.

A very special thank you goes out to his great friend and dedicated doctor, Dr. Randall Marsh, as well as the professionals and staff at Pathways of Northern Colorado. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Pathways online at Pathwayscare.org or mailed to 305 Carpenter Rd, Fort Collins, CO, 80525. Walt’s Celebration of Life will be held Friday, December 15th, 2023 starting graveside at Lakeside Cemetery in Loveland (Loveland Burial Park-East side) at 11:00AM with military honors. Followed by a celebration of life at noon (and light lunch) at Resthaven Memory Gardens at 8426 US-287, Fort Collins.