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In Memoriam: Charles Richard Walter (Aug. 18, 1947 – July 17, 2022)

Charles “Chuck” Walter of Silverton, Oregon passed away at his home on Sunday, July 17, 2022 at the age of 74. He was born Aug. 18, 1947 to Eddie and Helen (Schaffer) Walter in Fairbury, Illinois and was the seventh of 13 children.

Chuck is survived by his dear wife, Karen, of 53 years; children: Katrina (Virgil) Knobloch of Bloomfield, Iowa; Karmin (John) Popkes of Rock Rapids, Iowa; Chad (Megan) Walter of Silverton; Curt (Elizabeth) Walter of Lucas, Ohio; Kyle (Trisha) Walter of Silverton; Craig (Kristi) Walter of Silverton; Kristen (Matt) Brockamp of Wallowa, Oregon; and Kara (Todd) Strahm of Fort Wayne, Indiana; as well as 33 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers Jim, Keith, Harvey, Pete, Duane, Donnie, and sisters Barb Kuenzi, Marilyn Kuenzi, Rosie Edelman, Nancy Vitzthum and Cindy Edelman. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Shirley Kuenzi.

Chuck grew up on a dairy farm near Fairbury, Illinois where he learned Christian values and a strong work ethic. At the age of 19 he was drafted into the army and served two years between Fort Sam Houston in Texas and Nuremberg, Germany. After discharge, he met Karen Dettwyler from Silverton, Oregon and they were married on Dec. 14, 1968. Chuck and Karen gave their lives to Jesus Christ and were baptized in November 1973.

Chuck was a member of the Apostolic Christian Church in Silverton. His faith was evidenced in how he conducted himself, how he interacted with others, and how he approached the end of his life – he was ready to meet the Lord!

Chuck worked on a survey crew for three years and then spent 39 years working at Pratum Co-op in the fertilizer and chemical division where he developed many lasting relationships with farmers and community members in the Willamette Valley. His sense of humor, passion for fishing and great love for his family will be remembered and missed. His gentle and helpful nature was a blessing to those who knew him.

Chuck’s family would like to extend a special thank you to those who brought comfort and joy to him in his final days. Visitation was held on July 25 at the Apostolic Christian Church Fellowship Center in Silverton. A funeral as held on July 26 at Apostolic Christian Church, followed by graveside service at Bethany Pioneer Cemetery.