Walter Edward Bakle

Walter Edward Bakle, 84, of Columbus, passed away on April 18, 2026 at Riverside Hospital. He was born on April 11, 1942, to the late George W. Bakle and Marie (Hoff) Bakle. Walter was preceded in death by his wife of almost 54 years, Carol, whom he met at The Ohio State University Newman Center and married in 1966. He is also preceded in death by his granddaughter Naomi Loadman and brother Father John Bakle.

Walter graduated from Toledo Central Catholic High School. He received the Evans Scholarship Award from the Toledo Country Club. He graduated from The Ohio State University with a BA in History where he also received his MA in Political Science. While at OSU, he was in the ROTC, and then proudly served in the United States Army as a Captain during Vietnam. He was awarded 2 Bronze Stars of Valor for his brave service.

Walter worked as Recreation Supervisor for the City of Columbus Parks and Recreation working at the Thompson, Whetstone and Westgate recreation centers. He also worked for City of Bexley Recreation and Parks. He was a member of Immaculate Conception church, was an Evans Scholar, served as President of the Newman Center on the OSU campus, was active with the American Legion, and was a 4th Degree member of the Knights of Columbus at Sacred Hearts Catholic Church in Cardington, Ohio.

He enjoyed playing golf, softball, and basketball, as well as spending time camping and taking road trips with his family. He was a dog lover and was an avid fan of the Browns and the Buckeyes.

Walter will be greatly missed and survived by Christine (Bill) Loadman, Thomas (Jessica) Bakle, Richard (Jennifer) Bakle, James (Maggie) Bakle and Amy Bakle; grandchildren, Joe, Elizabeth, Marie, Will, John, Jonah and Jordan; and great-grandchildren, Will and Sophia, as well as his friend Lewis.