Walter James Stephenson, 84, of Sanford, FL passed away at Hospice of the Comforter in Altamonte Springs, FL on Saturday, August 25, 2018 at 5:30 p.m. He was born March 22,1934 in Austin, Minnesota. His parents were Estella Mary and Walter J. Stephenson. Walter was married to Shelia Rae Baustian in 1965.
Upon graduating High School he joined the Navy in 1952 and served as a Aircraft Maintenance Engineer until 1956. In the Navy he received the National Defense Service Medal. He received a Bachelor of Science degree at Winona State University in Austin, MN. He taught Shop in Baltimore, MN. In 1964 he went to Air Force Officer Training School and had a long career in the Military. He retired as a Captain of the 72nd TAC in 1978. Throughout his Military career he received many metals to include Good Conduct, Air Force Longevity Service Award and received Four Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters. After his military career he taught Shop at the School for the Mentally Handicapped, was a General Manager for the local movie theatre and then he became the Maintenance Supervisor at Scott Paper Co where he retired.
He was a loving Husband, Father, and GrandFather. Walter was a major train and big band enthusiast and enjoyed spending his time outside talking to neighbors.
He is survived by his Son, David Stephenson (Maureen), Daughter, Mary McGregor (Stephen). Grandchildren, Brittany McGregor (Scott Wilkins), Mary McGregor, Paige Stephenson. Great Grandchild, Maxwell Wilkins and Brother, Tom Stephenson.
Services will be held on Friday, August 31, 2018 at DeGusipe Funeral Home, 9001 N. Orlando Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751 - Viewing from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Services at 10-10:30 a.m. Interment will be held at Bushnell National Cemetery, 6502 SW 102nd Avenue, Bushnell, FL 33513 at 12:30 p.m. Heaven gained a Warrior this week. We will miss and love you always Dad.