Walter Edmondson

Walter P. Edmondson, age 79, of Muskegon, died on Friday, January 13, 2012. He was born in Muskegon to Ralph E. and Martha V. (Cross) Edmondson on February 11, 1932. He married the former Judith V. Gustavson on October 1, 1960. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister, Alyce V. Rockey, and brother-in-law, Gordon K. Rockey. Walt graduated from Muskegon High School in 1950 and enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, serving until 1954. He graduated from Muskegon Community College in 1956. He also attended Montana State University before graduating from Wayne State University in 1967 with a Bachelors degree in Accounting. He worked in that field for a number of firms including Brunswick and Dresser Industries, retiring in 1987. He also built custom fishing poles, running a mail order business out of his home. Walt was an avid outdoorsman who loved to fish, hunt ducks and other game, and to go camping. He made hand-carved duck sculptures and was an expert at tying flies. Walt loved to sail and was the owner of the sailboat, Pippi Longstocking, for many years. He also enjoyed golfing with his wife and other family members. He was a member of the North Ottawa Rod and Gun Club, enjoying skeet and trap shooting. He was interested in Amateur Radio and held a Novice operator license. He was also a member of the Muskegon Vikings Club where he appreciated the fellowship of its members. Beside Judy, his wife of fifty-one years, he is survived by the six children of Alyce and Gordon Rockey, of whom he was very proud: Larry (Linda), Colleen (Craig), Bruce, William (Katherine), James (Maria), and Daniel (Tifenn) in addition to eight grand-nieces and grand-nephews. The family will miss their Uncle Walt. Cremation will take place with a Memorial Service on Thursday, January 19 at 1:00 pm at Clock Life Story Funeral Home. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service, from noon to 1:00 p.m. Flowers are welcome. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Vikings Club Scholarship Fund, the North Ottawa Rod and Gun Club, or the Samuel Lutheran Church Church.