Final Salute

Walter C. Calder Obituary

Walter C. Calder, Sr., age 97, of Middletown, DE passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Sunday, March 3, 2019.

He was born on October 13, 1921, in Jarrettsville, MD to the late Otho Street Calder and Mary Marguerite Bailey Calder.

Walt enlisted in the Navy in 1942. He served with the 37th Naval Construction Battalion (Seabees) in the Pacific Theater until the end of World War II. His military service influenced his lifelong patriotism.

Walt married Helen (Chaffinch) Calder on February 8, 1946. He worked for Chrysler as a Journeyman Millwright, retiring after 30 years. After retirement, they spent much of their time at the beach. They also enjoyed attending UD football games and get-togethers with friends from Chelsea, Penn Acres, and American Legion Stahl Post 30, as well as reunions on both sides of the family and with his Seabee unit.

Walt enjoyed woodworking and in younger years, vegetable gardening. In retirement, he also worked part-time for Willey Farms for over 18 years, where he made many friends.

Walt was a lifetime member of American Legion Stahl Post 30, New Castle, DE and VFW Post 7234, Ocean View, DE.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife of 73 years, Helen, who passed just a month ago on February 8, 2019. He was also preceded by 3 brothers and 1 sister.

Walt is survived by his daughter Cheryl (Bo), sons Walter Jr. “Chip” (Alyse), Mark (Linda), and Jeffrey (Michelle); 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; and sister Betty Keatts.

Walt cared deeply about remembering our history and caring for military members and their families. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Stahl Post 30, the VFW, or the Pennsylvania Veterans Museum.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend funeral services on Monday, March 11th at 1 pm at the Daniels & Hutchison Funeral Home, 212 N. Broad St., Middletown, DE. Visitation will be from 11 am – 1pm at the funeral home. Interment with military honors will follow at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Bear, DE.