Obituary of James Philip Walter

James Philip Walter passed away in Olympia, Washington on July 9, 2016. He was born to Ralph and Eileen Walter and was a lifetime Olympia resident. Jim graduated from North Thurston High School where he played baseball, belonged to a car club, and was on the Homecoming Court. He graduated from Saint Martin’s College with a degree in Civil Engineering. He worked part time for the Washington State Department of Transportation while attending school and spent his entire career with that agency until his retirement. Jim’s hobbies were raising a vegetable garden, canning fruits and vegetables, and smoking, grilling, frying and baking meats and seafood. He was an excellent cook and enjoyed having friends and family over for dinner. He loved to hunt and fish, spending many of his years fishing, crabbing and clamming at his beach house. He was a talented wood craftsman, building his own furniture and two of his own houses. He was thorough and good at whatever he tackled. Jim is survived by his son, Andrew and wife Vicky; his brother, Jerry and wife Shelley; Uncle Bob and Aunt Lee Talbott; cousin, Keith Thomas and wife Jeanne; as well as several other cousins, nieces and nephews. Jim had many friends and was respected by all. He enjoyed their company, was loved by all, and will be truly missed. His son says about him, “My Dad was one of the most generous people I know. He had a great sense of humor, always enjoying ‘setting the hook’ [practical joker]. I’ll miss him deeply, but know I’ll see him again someday. I love you Dad.” Please leave memories of Jim or condolences for his family in the Guestbook below.