Walt died September 16, 2024. He was born on April 6th, 1948, in Paulina, Oregon. His Grandfather homesteaded the ranch where Walt grew up. Walt was in the middle of two brothers, Dwayne, the oldest, and Greg, the youngest. Walt graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in Engineering. He jumped at Cave Junction 1968-81.

From Gary Buck (CJ-66): "Walt was always in top physical condition, having wrestled and played football in high school and college. He was an outstanding smokejumper, squad leader, and spotter. In 1972, I had the privilege of being Walt's jump partner on every fire. This was an amazing experience. You can't help but learn so much from him.

"After Walt and I jumped a fire, we returned to another base. We were one and two on the list. After getting our gear ready for the next fire call, Walt walked around the base and the outside, including the ramp. They only had a Twin Beech available for us. Walt approached me and said that this plane had a blown jug. I asked Walt, 'What is a blown jug?' We walked over to the engine, and he showed me oil leaking from one cylinder. We went to the office and notified management and were told the plane was OK and to be ready for the next fire call. Walt said, 'No!'

"Finally, an A&P mechanic was called to put Walt in his place. The pilot and mechanic showed up and shut the plane down. Walt's good judgment and unwillingness to back down probably averted an accident and saved lives. Ten minutes later, management announced that Walt and I would board a 172 and return to the Gobi. They didn't want us there anymore.

"After jumping, Walt pursued a new career with a partnership in music. He then worked for Krauss Drafts as a design engineer. Once, I talked to the owner of the company, Kurt Krauss. He told me that the success of their company was Walt's superior design work and follow-through. Products manufactured by the company were sold all over the world."
Thanks to Gar Buck for this information on Walt. (Ed.)