Walter Gerald Hoshaw, 75, died Oct. 11, 2002, following an extended illness. He was born Oct. 9, 1927, in Wolcott, Ind., to Wilbur and Ida Hoshaw. He was married JUne 29, 1957 to Ruth Kalbaugh in Ventura, Calif. He and Ruth moved to Whidbey Island in 1958. Walter served three years in the Army and 20 years in the Navy. Following his retirement from the military he was employed as a supply technician with civil service for the next 23 years at NAS Whidbey Island.

He is survived by his wife Ruth of Oak Harbor; four children, Peter Zielinski of California, William “Bill” Zielinski of California, Jeanette “Jan” Calkins and her husband, Tim of California, and Evamarie Hoshaw of Oak Harbor. Eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren also survive. He was preceded in death by five brothers and one sister.

Remembrances may be made to Home Health Care and Hospice of Whidbey General Hospital, 101 N. Main, Coupeville WA 98239 or Careage of Whidbey, 311 NE Third St. Coupeville 98239 or Whidbey General Hospital 101 N Main St. Coupeville, or Whidbey General Hospital Ambulance 101 N Main St. or 911.

Cremation was entrusted to Burley Funeral Chapel with inurnment to take place at Tahoma National Cemetery. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.