Walter S. Geiser

Walter S. Geiser, age 77, departed from this world on September 14, 2024, leaving behind a legacy woven with warmth, laughter, and an unwavering dedication to both his family and his work. Walter was born March 2, 1947 in Toledo to Thad and Ethel (Bigelow) Geiser Sr.

An alumnus of Macomber High School, class of 1965, he carried the lessons of his youth and the values instilled within him into the work he so passionately pursued. Walter proudly served in the Navy from 1976 to 1982 aboard the USS Trenton LPD-14, where he received numerous accolades for his dedicated service. This chapter of his life not only forged strong friendships but instilled in him a profound sense of duty that he carried forth, long after he hung his uniform.

Walter’s career spanned 22 years in environmental waste cleanup, a testament to his commitment to protecting the land he so deeply adored. His hands-on approach and hard-working earned him respect and recognition. 

A devoted family man, Walter cherished his roles as father and grandfather, embodying the very essence of familial love. His heart brimmed with joy at the news of a new grandchild, displaying a tenderness wrapped in excitement as he dreamed of holding the little one in his arms. That eagerness to embrace life, to bond with those he loved, was a hallmark of Walter’s existence. He found untold delight in time spent at the family camper, where tranquility reigned amidst the serenity of nature, allowing for cherished memories of fishing, boating, and camping. Embracing the world through travel, he explored the rich tapestry of cultures and histories that defined each destination he visited, reminding us all of the beauty that lies just beyond our doorstep. When times would get tough, “Milford” would come out to make his family smile and laugh. 

As devoted to sports as he was to his family, Walter showed an unyielding loyalty to his favorite teams, fondly rooting for the Penn State Nittany Lions and Miami Dolphins, that often sparked friendly rivalries with family members, particularly with Laura, whose affection for the Buckeyes brought on days filled with light-hearted ribbing. The echoes of their playful banter remind us of the laughter that filled the spaces around him.

The snowstorm of January 1987 marked not just a fleeting weather phenomenon but the beginning of a beautiful bond as he wed an old friend. Their journey together spanned an extraordinary 37 years, full of shared dreams and adventures, laughter and love-a testament to deep companionship.

Walter Geiser leaves behind a void that resonates with loss yet is illuminated by the memories of a life well-lived and a love shared. He is survived by his loving wife, children, and grandchildren, each carrying a piece of his heart as they step forward into a world that will forever feel his absence. As we gather our memories around him, we celebrate a life that was rich with purpose, overflowing with love, and forever etched in the stories we will tell.

Those left to forever cherish his memory are his loving wife, Laura Geiser; children, Patricia (Charles) Donnelly, Sr., and Leslie (Jon) Lipper; grandchildren, CJ Donnelly, Brianna (Kale) Kendel, and Meghan (Zach) Phalen; great grandchildren, Emmalyn, Jameson, Harper, and Archer; brothers, Thad and Roger Geiser; sister, Leigh Pologna; and his beloved dog, Jewels. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-mom, Doris Murray Geiser; significant other, Rosemary Stocker; sister, Karen Geiser; nephew, Michael Geiser; sister-in-law, Linda Jones Geiser; brother-in-law, Steve Pologna; and ex-wife, Fran Greenwald.

Family and friends may visit at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4150 West Laskey Road, Toledo, Ohio 43623, on Sunday, September 22, 2024 from 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family towards a memorial bench that will be placed at Magee Marsh and the marina. 

To share a memory of Walter or leave a special message for his family, please visit the guestbook below.