He is predeceased by his mother Loretta Wichowski Dunn and survived by his father, David A. Wichowski of Star, Idaho; sister, Renee Walker (Jimmy) of Visalia; brother, Tony Wichowski (Daniel) of Switzerland; niece, Emilie Walker; step-father Gary Dunn (Elizabeth) of Visalia; and countless other family members and friends.
Walter graduated from Exeter Union High School, where he was a swimming and waterpolo standout, recognized as a leader and MVP several times. He was sought after by several colleges, but chose to stay close to home; attending College of the Sequoias. There he was named All-American and went to the Jr. Olympics in Germany.
Walter worked as a custodian for Visalia Unified School District for nearly 20 years. While working there he represented the California School Employee Association at state conferences in Las Vegas and Sacramento many times. Last year, he served on the negotiating team. This year he was nominated to be lead negotiator. The election is next week.
Walter was thoughtful, smart, competitive and funny. He was a natural and gregarious leader, had a passion for being well-informed, was an avid reader of all kinds of fiction and non-fiction, a strategic and successful game and poker player, and a loyal friend, brother, son and uncle. He had an infectious laugh and his home was always open.
Memorial services will be held Tuesday, Nov. 27 at 11 a.m. at Miller Memorial Chapel, 1120 W. Goshen Ave., Visalia, CA., followed immediately by a reception of tacos, gaming and Werewolf, just the way Walter would want it. He will be laid to rest on Wednesday, Nov. 28 at the Woodlake Cemetery. Meet at Miller Memorial Chapel in Visalia at 9 a.m. to process to Woodlake.
Tributes and condolences may be made at www.millerchapel.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Miller Memorial Chapel, 559-732-8371.
