Walter’s family immigrated to Canada, settling in Laird, Sask., in 1927. In 1940, they sent him to B.C. to work on a farm, where he also performed alternative service. With his eye for detail and pride in workmanship, Walter started a masonry business. Anna caught his eye at a church youth event. They purchased a motel in Fruitland, Ont. Walter taught high school students masonry in Hamilton, Ont., while completing his BA and teaching certificate, and later taught masonry and English in St. Catharines, Ont. In 1966, the family bought a fruit farm in Beamsville, Ont., to fulfill Walter’s dream of farming and be near Vineland MB Church for their children. Walter was active in the Ontario and Canadian MB Conferences. He served on the boards of Bethesda Home, Vineland, Ont., and Tabor Manor, St. Catharines. Dementia required a move to nursing care. Walter taught his children to love the land and work hard.
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