Walton Keith Hurst

August 15, 1941 – October 28, 2025

Walt “Wally” Hurst, a cherished son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, at his home in White Lake, Michigan. Born on August 15, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan. Wally lived a life full of love, laughter, and quiet strength.

He was preceded in death by his siblings Newton Hurst, Drucilla James, Bill Hurst, and Charlotte Hurst.

Walt was the devoted husband of Nardine "Dee", his beloved wife of 53 years, until her passing in 2016. Together they built a life centered on family, loyalty, and love. His legacy continues through his children Kelly Killewald, Scott Hurst, Ronna (David) Kern, Debra (Christopher) Denomme, and Stacie (Joel) Hurst-Boyd—each a reflection of his dedication and spirit.

As a grandfather, Walt was deeply proud of his grandchildren —Dustin (Jaimie) Killewald, Joshua (Amber) Killewald, Jordan (Meghan) Killewald, Devin (Asia Finnel) Kern, Dylan (Alyssa) Denomme, Dakota Denomme, Delany Denomme, Darla (Billy) Wentworth, and Everhett Boyd. His great-grandchildren—Kinley, Blair, Rose, Caleb, Noah, Caylee, Liam, Declan, Silas, Basil, Landon, and Baylen—were a constant source of joy and pride. Though showing affection wasn’t always his strong suit, everyone who knew him could see how much a visit or phone call meant to him—his face would light up, and if you wanted to talk sports, even better! We cannot forget the love he had for his dogs, all of which, for the past 20 + years, have been Pit Bull rescues. Walt's days were brightened by his faithful cuddle bug, Star Bright-- his little (big) pit-opotamus! She brought him so much happiness. Star Bright will now be lovingly cared for by his daughter, Kelly.

Walt attended John J. Pershing High School in Detroit, where he made lifelong friends and lasting memories. After graduation, he proudly served in the United States Army, embodying duty, courage, and discipline. Professionally, Walt was remarkably dedicated—spending his entire career with the same company as it evolved from Detroit Diesel to Penske, and finally Daimler Chrysler, where he retired with distinction.

A lifelong sports enthusiast, Walt watched just about every game he could, but his loyalty always belonged to Detroit’s teams and Michigan State University. An athlete at heart, he spent many evenings playing baseball and hockey in local leagues. He was also a fierce competitor in horseshoes—his skill and accuracy earning him the reputation as the “ringer to beat”. And in Euchre, if you wanted to win, you wanted Wally as your partner. In his younger years, he treasured hunting trips with friends in Crystal Falls, pursuing deer and small game with patience and respect.

Walt will be remembered for his generosity and selflessness—it has been said he’d give you the shirt off his back and the shoes off his feet, even in a snowstorm. His loyalty ran deep, and he would do anything for his family, friends, and anyone in need. He met challenges with quiet strength, triumphs with humility, and life with a big heart and warm grin.

As we say goodbye, we celebrate a life well-lived—a journey filled with laughter, love, Stroh’s beer, Bob Seger tunes, and countless memories. His spirit will remain a guiding light for his family and friends, and his memory will be treasured in our hearts forever.

A committal service with Military Honors will be held at Great Lakes National Cemetery, located at 4200 Belford Rd, Holly, MI, 48442, United States, on November 14, 2025, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm.

Memorial contribution's in Walt's memory may be made to the Leukemia Foundation, the Michigan Animal Rescue League, or Almost Home Animal Rescue League.

Please share a memory or leave a condolence with Walt's family.