Walter J. Chmielewski

At the age of 87, Walter finally found peace on March 14, 2012, under the loving care of the Horizon Hospice staff at St. Mary’s Ozaukee Hospital. Walter was born on September 11, 1924, in Granville, Wisconsin, (now Milwaukee) and grew up on a farm with 7 brothers and 3 sisters. Deferment from military service enabled 4 of his brothers to serve in World War II, while Walter and his brother, Frank maintained the farm. After marrying Dorothy Casper in 1952, Walter was employed by Rowe Sand and Gravel, eventually becoming part owner. This work allowed him to realize his appreciation of nature and time spent in the out-of-doors. Passing along his love of nature to his daughters was very important to him. Throughout life, he possessed a youthful spirit, participating in various outdoor sports with his daughters. Shortly after celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary, Walter’s wife, Dorothy died. Thirteen years later, he met and married his current wife, Dolores. After retirement, they enjoyed traveling and spent winters in Florida and Arizona. Due to health complications, they remained in Wisconsin for the past two winters, where Dolores lovingly and patiently took care of him as his health declined. With her loving heart, Walter was able to enjoy extended years of life, with Dolores always by his side. Walter was a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather, delighting in visits from family and friends, on whom he practiced his sense of humor and joke-telling ability. Walter is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Dolores (nee Gooding-Cupples) Chmielewski. Dear father of Frances (Dan) Rudolph and Lynn Zirbes, step-father of John Gooding, grandfather of Jerome Zirbes III, Nicholas Rudolph, and Matthew Rudolph, and step-grandsons, Michael Gooding and Joseph A. Gooding. Great-grandfather of Anika Preder, Jackson Gooding, and Vincent Zirbes. He is further survived by his sister, Betty Johnson, brother, John J. Cameron, sister-in-law, Joyce (the late Frank) Chmielewski, brother-in-law, James Sedivy, son-in-law, Jerome Zirbes, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. “Dad, we hope they haven’t already heard your jokes in heaven.”