Walter was preceded in death by his parents, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Raised in Brooklyn and East Rockaway, New York, Walter attended St. Camillus Elementary School in Rockaway Beach, Brooklyn Technical High School, the University of Arkansas, and Southern Illinois University.
He enlisted in the United States Air Force on October 23, 1967. During his distinguished 21-year military career, Walter proudly served his country, including multiple tours in Southeast Asia. His dedication and bravery earned him numerous distinguished awards, honors, and medals.
Following his retirement from the Air Force, Walter went on to enjoy a long and successful career with several NASA contractor companies, where he proudly supported the Space Shuttle Program.
Walter is survived by his loving wife, Patricia; his daughter, Kathyriya Kennedy, and her husband, Joe; his stepdaughters, Nicole Cloutier-Lemasters and her husband, Chris, and Aimee Westbrook and her husband, James; his stepsons, Michael Cloutier and his wife, Holle, and Sam Cloutier; and his two loving sisters, Carolyn Middleton and Susan Hazel. He also leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren: Ava and Tatum Kennedy; Kyle, Hunter, and Victoria Westbrook; Alec Cloutier; and Tristan Cloutier. He is also survived by his niece, Suzanne Sullivan, her husband, Joe Sullivan, and their two sons, Aiden and Ciaran, along with many cousins.
Walter lived a life defined by service—to his country, his family, and the people he cared about. He was generous, loyal, and always willing to lend a helping hand. He brought joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories to everyone who knew him. Walter loved golf, fishing, and, as those closest to him would say with a smile, "being right." His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.
May he rest in eternal peace.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
Visitation will be held at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038, on August 6, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. A Celebration of Life will be held from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.
A Committal Service will take place at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038, on August 6, 2026, from 12:30 pm to 1:00 pm. Fellowship and Refreshments will follow at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm.
