Passed away peacefully at home in Toronto on Friday, December 22, 2023 at the age of 91. Cherished husband of Jennifer. Adored father of Lisa (Michael) Zajner and Michele (Blake) Pyburn. Adored Dedo of Katie (Paul), Michael (Marisol) and Christopher. Much loved brother of Patricia (Bill) Bellingham. Brother-in-law to Irene (Henry) Migas, and uncle to Geoffrey, Peter, Bradley and Blair.

Walter was an interesting man with many quirks which made him admired and liked in all circles he was a part of. As a graduate of the Faculty of Dentistry from U of T, he met and made life long friendships. As an avid and outstanding curler, first at St. Georges Golf and Country Club from the early 60’s through to 1976, then followed by many years at the Boulevard Club, he made friends too innumerable to count. His athleticism, enthusiasm and love of the game, the bonspieling he loved, and committees and sections he not only joined but chaired, made him a friend to all.

Through Jennifer's love of travel, he enjoyed many trips around the world. Dental Conventions in the early days, and in latter years, cruising, travels with friends, and month-long hiatuses in Florida. Many long-time friends were acquired through these travels.

Walter loved the cottage. Purchased in 1961, he quickly developed a love and passion for his cottage, culminating in 1980 of his dream to build his own log-cabin. Walter carved each and every log himself – excepting of course the few logs that others would dare try - never quite to the exacting standards of Walter. The boathouse was built, the garage followed, and then in the early 1990s, the original cottage removed, a new foundation poured, and the building began. By 1995, Walter’s dream took shape when he was able to set up house. Of course it took a few more years of interior work before Jennifer would enjoy. By 2000, family and friends all enjoyed.

And enjoy he did. The twice annual tradition of fishing weekends with buddies continued. Walter happily spent winters at the cottage. Summer was a great time with the grandkids. He enjoyed spending his time at the lake reading, fishing, building and creating.

He loved his dogs. Never without a dog – each dog became “the best dog ever”.

But above all, Walter loved his grandchildren – they were his pride and joy. He delighted in everything they did, babysitting with ease. Birthdays, Christmas, Graduations – he celebrated each and every occasion and took immense pride in all their achievements.

All that knew Walter had fun when he was near. He enjoyed life and laughter – never passing up a good joke. But - he also loved to argue! An argument could be made from nothing and he naturally sought out those that would spend evenings after a meal, sitting with a bottle of wine and having a good argument.
He will be missed.

Friends may call Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel (2357 Bloor Street West) on Thursday from 4-8 pm. A service in the chapel will be held Friday, December 29, 2023 at 11 am. Interment at Park Lawn Cemetery.

If desired, donations in Walter’s memory can be made to any organization of your choice, or to any animal charity.