Walter Stanton Jr.

Walter Henry Stanton, Jr., passed away at the age of 95 on February 8, 2016 in Kerrville, Texas. Wally never knew a stranger. He loved a good joke, dogs, golf, a good haircut, and small children. He loved his wife and family beyond measure. He was an excellent husband, father, and grandfather and taught all of his family to enjoy life to the fullest.\r\n \r\nWally was born on November 19, 1920 in Cincinnati, Ohio, the second of four children. He graduated from Purdue University in chemical engineering and obtained a master's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. At Purdue, he met Jane van Gorkom and was "smitten" the first time he saw her. They married February 12, 1944 on the campus of the University of Chicago. During most of their married life, they resided in Texas City, Texas, where they raised five children.\r\n \r\nWally spent his career in chemical engineering with Monsanto Chemical Company. While there, he was made a Distinguished Fellow, the highest honor for an engineer, and received numerous patents relating to the processing of hydrocarbons and the purification of ethylene and acetylene. He was active in the First Presbyterian Church of Texas City, where he served as an elder and taught Sunday school for many years. He was an avid golfer, with several holes in one to his credit. He never took a cart.\r\n \r\nWally was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Jane. He is survived by his daughter Ann Rich of Orlando, Florida; son Dr. William Stanton and wife Nancy of Lewisville, Texas; daughter Patricia Skinner and husband Thomas of Denver, Colorado; daughter Pamela Baron and husband Steven of Austin, Texas; son Walter Stanton III and wife Christi of Kerrville, Texas; and sister Patricia Devlin of Cincinnati, Ohio. He leaves behind eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren - all of whom were his greatest joys.\r\n \r\nThe family will hold a private memorial. The family is especially grateful to Yolanda Lerma, Wally's caregiver and best friend for the last several years.\r\n \r\nIn lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Wally's memory to Grace Medical Home, 51 Pennsylvania Street, Orlando, Florida 32806, or to a charity of choice.\r\n