Walter A. Thunder

Walter A. Thunder, 87, of Battle Creek died after a brief illness at Home on Thursday, July 23, 2015.

He was born October 8, 1927 at Leila Hospital in Battle Creek to Walter S. and Madge (Joy) Thunder. Walter attended school in Chicago before returning to Battle Creek. During WWII, he served with the U.S. Navy in the Marshall Islands. He was employed as a machinist for 30 years at the Eaton Corporation, retiring in 1981.

Walter was preceded in death by his wife, the former Patricia Bradley in 1996. They had a wonderful life and together they raised eight children. Surviving are children, Roy (Patty) Thunder of Lacey, Kathryn (Dan) Clark of Albion, Karen (Frank) Elkins of Battle Creek, Jim (Nancy) Bradley of Bedford, Laura (Phil) Metzger of Lacey and John (Deb) Bradley of Marshall; numerous grandchildren and their families; and a sister, Norma Carlstrom of Manistee. In addition to his wife, Walter was preceded in death by a daughter, Jacklyn Sellars and a son, Walter Thunder, Jr.

Walter thoroughly enjoyed woodworking; and owning a business titled Thunder's Toys and Things. His hobbies included quilting, stain-glass projects, traveling around the world, dancing, Karaoke and playing cards, especially Euchre.

A visitation will be held 10:00-11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 30, 2015 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care. Walt will be interred later at Oakridge Cemetery, Marshall, MI.

Memorial contributions in memory of Walter may be made to American Cancer Society. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.