Frieda A. Walter

   Frieda Ann Walter left this world peacefully on March 13, 2024, at the age of 94, surrounded by family. Frieda’s legacy of love and kindness will forever echo in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

   Born August 5, 1929, in Maple Grove, New Lothrop, Michigan, to Anthony and Mary Turnwald, Frieda was the ninth of  eleven children. She and her husband, Max Walter, recently celebrated an extraordinary 70 years of wedded bliss with family and friends, a testament to their unwavering commitment and deep affection for each other. Together, they built a life filled with love, service, and countless cherished memories.

   As a mother, Frieda was a beacon of strength and devotion, guiding her four children— Janet Cutler, Jane (Steve) Kirk, Dean (Sarah) Walter, and Dale (Joanne) Walter —with boundless love and support. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of her seven grandchildren, Kyle (Brittany) Cutler, Blair (Charlie) Hunt, Haley (Steven) Jenkins, Eric Walter, Whit Walter, Kate Walter, and Colin Walter, and eleven great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored and loved so well.

   Frieda lived in Owosso and Flint before spending the last 55 years in Portage and the Kalamazoo area. After raising her children, she worked for Portage Public Schools and later for the former Upjohn Company, retiring in 1994.

   Frieda's faith was an integral part of her life, and she was a charter member of Saint Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, spending many years as a Eucharistic Minister. Her devotion was seen through her dedicated service, participating in various church activities and volunteering her time to help those in need.

   Outside of her faith and family, Frieda found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She routinely spent hours sewing pajama pants and pillow cases for her family and friends, and for those in need. She also loved flowers, gardening and cooking, and was never happier than when hosting a family celebration. She and Max were also very active in volunteer groups, such as Reading Buddies with the Portage Public School system, the Welcome Center at the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport, and Meals on Wheels.

   Frieda’s warm smile, gentle demeanor, and eagerness to share a good story touched the lives of everyone she encountered. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, kindness, and abiding faith that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

   A celebration of Frieda’s remarkable life will be held at St Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 1150 West Centre, on Tuesday, April 2, with visitation from 9:30 -11:00 AM and a recitation of the rosary in the church at 11:00 AM. Funeral services will follow at 11:30.

   Frieda may have left this earthly realm, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved her. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the affection and light she shared so generously during her time with us.

   In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Pediatric Epilepsy Surgery Alliance, a cause that was close to Frieda’s heart. An “In Memory of” can be entered by choosing “dedicate this gift.”