Raymond M. Walter died at Careage of Whidbey in Coupeville on Feb. 25, 2011, at the age of 88. He was born Feb. 12, 1923, and was a life-long resident of Oak Harbor.

A graduate of Oak Harbor High School in 1941, Ray was a varsity athlete who competed in football, basketball and track. He also served as a student body officer and a judge of the FFA.

After high school, Ray took a job at a local farm before joining the Army and becoming a paratrooper.

After his stint in the Army, he came back to Oak Harbor and became an active member of the community, serving for more than 25 years as a volunteer for the Oak Harbor Fire Department. The owner of a local auto parts business, Ray was also a founding member of the Whidbey Golf and Country Club.

Throughout his energetic life he loved the outdoors including hunting, camping, fishing, golfing, boating and gardening. He’d take great pride in providing family, neighbors and friends with an abundance of crab, salmon, clams and anything he’d catch during his outdoor adventures. Ray and Betty were snow birds for many years in their home in Arizona and they’d travel around the country visiting his many friends and family. An enthusiastic sports fan, he’d cheer for local teams … Go Cougs!

Ray is survived by his wife, Betty Walter of Oak Harbor; his daughters, Karen (Kit) Jennings of Los Angeles and Marge Walter of Oak Harbor; grandchildren Rebecca Walter of Seattle, Stacie (Jason) Quatsoe of Big Lake, Wash., R.C. Jennings of Los Angeles, Jack Jennings of Los Angeles, John (Niki) Leddy of Fort Mill, S.C., and Janay Leddy of Roseville, Calif.; and great-grandchildren Casey Quatsoe and Emma Leddy.

He is preceded in death by daughter Wendy Walter-Dunning and son Johnny Walter. He will be missed by many extended family members and friends.

Graveside funeral services for Ray were held March 2 at Maple Leaf Cemetery with Pastor Dave Johnson officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests remembrances be made to your favorite charity in Ray’s name. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.wallinfuneralhome.com Arrangements entrusted to Wallin Funeral Home and Cremation, Oak Harbor.