Walter L. Doyel passed away peacefully in his home on January 8, 2020. Walter was born May 18, 1927 in Stuart, Oklahoma to James “Elmer” Doyel, affectionately known as Pa, and Lillian Mae Doyel, known as Ma. In the 1930s, the Doyel family made their way to the valley where they settled in Lemoore.
Prior to starting his career, Walter enlisted in the United States Navy. He served on the USS Topeka where he served as a Seaman First Class/Ordnanceman. His time in the Navy took him all around the world where he served in WWII. He treasured his time as a Sailor and spoke fondly of his service to our country.
Upon his return from the Navy, he married the former Rita M. Johnson in 1947. They lived in Hanford where they raised their four children.
Walter started working at the Safeway Creamery in Hanford in 1950 and worked his way up to plant foreman where he retired in 1989. He was known as “Red" to everyone, was held in high regard by his supervisors for a strong work ethic, and could often be found having his “stogey” in his front pocket.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents and step-mom Nellie, his children, Sharon Walker, Daron Doyel (survived by Frances), Emerson Doyel (survived by Victoria), and Cathy Campbell. He is survived by 2 daughter-in-laws, 10 Grandchildren, 27 Great-Grandchildren, 11 Great-Great-Grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
When you visited Walter, you could find him following the stocks, watching the weather channel, golf, or the Chicago Bears, or tending to his yard and his prized roses. His favorite thing to do in his later years was going to the horse races. He always had a cold “sodee” for you and plenty of candy in the fridge or ice cream in the freezer. He loved his family but especially his great and great-great grandchildren. He thoroughly treasured being Grandpa or Papa Walter to them and being there for them.
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