Walter Ray Petty

Walter "Walt" Petty, age 75, passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on August 6, 2024. He was born on December 28, 1948 to Donald & June (Hurley) Petty in Battle Creek. He graduated from Battle Creek Central in 1967 and then served in the Army as Military Police in Vietnam from May 9, 1968, to December 12, 1969. After Vietnam, he went to KCC and graduated with an associate’s degree in criminal justice. He wanted to be a parole officer, but Walt took a different path and began working in the food industry. He worked for National Grocery Store and Eckrich until they closed down. He retired from Welch's in Paw Paw. 

Walt is survived by his daughter, Nicole (Just) Crawford of Ypsilanti, MI; son, Marc Wolf of Paw Paw, MI; siblings, Ronald (Sondra) Petty of Belleuve, MI, Charlotte (John) Bell of Davison, MI, Vernon (Julie) Petty of Akron, OH and Eric Petty of Newport, PA; granddaughters, Shelby and Maizie Crawford; ex-wife Chris Petty of Battle Creek, MI; bonus daughter, Heather Jinks; bonus grandchildren, Hannah (Cody) Belote, Jack Day Jr., Jessica (Lee) Decker and Josh Day. Walt was preceded in death by his parents Donald and June Petty and grand-dog Chloe.

Walt adored his family and friends, especially his granddaughters, Shelby and Maizie. They were the light of his life, and he would FaceTime them almost every day. He loved to spend a lot of time with them and spoiled them like crazy. His favorite team was the University of Michigan, and he loved to watch football and basketball games with his dad and son, Marc. Walt would always say he didn't like crowds, yet he would talk to everyone he met. He would leave a lasting impression on everyone he talked to. He was the most generous, loving, and caring man ever! If you were ever having a bad day, he would make sure to get you to smile. Walt enjoyed watching Hannah play volleyball and Jack play football; he was one of their biggest fans. He was very proud of them and what they have become.

Walt was an amazing family member, friend, and coworker. He looked out for everyone he knew and made sure to check in on them one way or the other. He was always interested in learning about what was happening in their lives. He was always a phone call away if you ever needed help or someone to talk to.

Walt has left a missing piece in so many people's lives. He will never be forgotten, and we will miss him dearly!!

The family will receive friends on Monday, August 12, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the service at 12:00 p.m. at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, officiated by the Rev. Eric Petty. Guests are encouraged to wear University of Michigan gear. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Battle Creek VA Medical Center. Mail checks to Battle Creek VA Medical Center, Community and Volunteer Service (135), 5500 Armstrong Rd, Battle Creek, MI 49037. 

Personal messages for Walt's family may be shared at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.