Walter, age 86, graduated from Sandusky High School in 1953. He was employed as a Chief Operator at the DuPont plant in Huron, and at the Columbia Gas reforming plant in Green Springs. He retired from Columbia Gas in Columbus, OH, as Safety and Health Coordinator in 1996. He was a member of the Ohio Gas Assn. serving as Committee Chairman from 1989-1990. Walt served in the Army Reserves from 1997-1963. He was a member of St. Peter Catholic Churches both in Huron and in Columbus. He is survived by loving wife of 66 years, Joan (Kluding); sons, Steven, Smyrna, GA, Mark (Rayanne), Washington Twp, MI, Thomas, Columbus, OH, David (Anita), Grove City, OH; grandchildren, Somer Gardner, Krissandra Akison (JD), and Andrew Gardner. Also, sister, Joyce Bretz; and sister-in-law, Linda Gardner; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Merton and Mary Gardner, infant daughter Susan at birth, grandson Conrad Gardner, sister Doris Moser and brother Daniel. Walt was a very private man and intensely loyal to his family. He enjoyed observing how different people react to situations and could always be counted on for a unique perspective on a problem or the pondering of life's questions. He was always happy to share morsels of profound wisdom enhanced with real life stories to mentor those around him. Visitation will be held from 10-11am Tuesday, June 15, 2021, in the gathering space at St. Peter Roman Catholic Church, 6899 Smoky Row Road, Columbus, OH 43235. The Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11am, immediately following the visitation. A memorial service and burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery, Sandusky, OH, Wednesday, June 16, at 11:30am. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Walt's name to the Mid-Ohio Food Bank or one's favorite charity.