Final Salute

Walter Eldon Bohnstedt passed away peacefully at age 94. Born in Everett, Washington, Walt was the son of Walter A. Bohnstedt and Mary D. Bohnstedt (née Luellen). Walt grew up with his two younger sisters, Marion and Darlene. The family later moved to Springfield, Oregon.

In 1950, he graduated from Springfield High School and, in 1954, graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in Business Administration. Walt served in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee on Kwajalein Island in the Marshall Islands.

In 1955, Walt married his high school sweetheart, Margaret “Jane” Patterson. Together they raised four children; Stanley, Marilynn, Nancy and Mark. Jane and Walt were married nearly 70 years, and in those years, seven grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren were added to the family.

Walt enjoyed a long career with New York Life Insurance Company. He was an Office Manager in the Bellevue, Washington office and Lloyd Center office in Portland, Oregon.

He was a devoted University of Oregon Ducks football fan and proud season ticket holder for many years. He loved traveling, especially with his motorhome, and cherished large family gatherings.

He was predeceased by his wife Jane (who passed away on April 29, 2025) and his sisters. Walt is survived by his children Stanley, Marilynn, Nancy, and Mark, their spouses and children, and his great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Smith Memorial Presbyterian Church, 2420 NE Fairview Ave, Fairview, OR 97024.

Walt’s warmth, dedication, and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him.