Obituary of Walter Henry Salter

It is with great sadness we announce that Walter Henry Salter passed away on Sunday, September 8, 2024, at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital, at the age of 98 years.

Walt was born in North Battleford, SK, in the basement of his parents’ flower shop on a cold day in February of 1926. He learned his money values and hard work ethics from his upbringing through the Great Depression. Walt enlisted in the Canadian Army after turning 18 in 1944 during WWII. After basic training in Canada, he was sent to England on a troopship where he awaited his transfer orders to a unit engaged in combat. The orders never came as Germany surrendered first. He then asked his superiors to transfer him to divisions that would fight in the Pacific Theatre. Japan also surrendered before he received transfer orders. He served in the army until being honorably discharged from service in 1947.

Walt was always a numbers guy. This was evidenced from his career as an Employment Insurance auditor for the federal government to his years as a self-employed bookkeeper. He was a fierce game player of number puzzles as well.

He married Leona Weir on December 26, 1956. Together they had three sons Jay, Ross and Dave (whom all loved hockey!), and two daughters Barb and Kerry. With a giant home rink that extended into the back alley, there were many neighbourhood hockey games.

Walt was renowned for his unwavering commitment to the Grande Prairie community. Over the years, he volunteered for many organizations, contributing his time at numerous casinos and bingos.

He was a collector of stamps and fossils.  His collection of fossils were later donated to the Grande Prairie Regional College, where they could be enjoyed by all.

Walt enjoyed living the last twelve years in Fort McMurray, AB, with his son Ross and daughter-in-law Debbie, along with their beloved dogs, bird, a big yard, and many friends.

He is survived by his children: Jay Salter (Terry Logan), Dave (Dorothy) Salter, Barb (Warren) Lopushinsky, Kerry (Neal) Grabatin, and daughter-in-law Debbie Salter. He is also survived by his grandchildren and their children: Correy Salter (Derek Page), Brooke Page, Madisyn Page and Morgan Page; Travis Salter, Harrison and Rosalyn; Kurtis Salter (Heather Hoang); Rodney Salter; Todd Smith-Salter (Megan), Acadia and Ryesen; Tammy (Danny) Peterson, Nora, Brynley and Luke; Brad (Taryn) Comis, Kurt Lopushinsky, and Kian Lopushinsky.

Walt was predeceased by his parents: Ralph and Lydia Salzgeber; brother George Salter; sisters Gertrude Milbank and Louise Alexander; son Ross Salter; granddaughter Lisa Salter; and grandson Brennan Comis.

A Service will be held on Friday, September 27, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 54 (9912 – 101 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB).

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.oliversfuneralhome.com.