Walter Alan Smith

Walter Alan Smith, of Milton, Washington, born March 27th 1961 passed away December 12th, 2021. He was born to Michael and Mary Smith in Wenatchee, Washington and raised in Quincy. Middle sibling of Wayne Smith, Lenora Smith, Bill Smith and Nancy Smith West. Graduated Jack Rabbit from Quincy High School in 1978. Walter packed his bags and set off for the world exploring Australia, then Hawaii and finally making a home in Western Washington.  He worked for Albertsons for 14 years, MKD, Dreyer’s and Nestles for 25 years, and 2 years with Southern Glazers Wine and Spirts. The vendor community was his second family.

Standing at 6’4”, he was a towering giant of unrequited love, faith and insurmountable joy, he always found a way to make people feel seen and included. Of his many hobbies, he enjoyed reading, woodworking with his wife, many hours building a sanctuary for his loved ones and beloved dogs in Milton to spend his time. A dashboard drummer to his many favored songs, you could find him preparing to entertain the masses of friends and family by BBQing and or lounging in the pool with a good IPA. Walter also loved spending his time on the fields, sidelines, bleachers, coaching local kids in his Milton Fife Edgewood community.

A devout member of the church for all of his life, Walter enjoyed attending and serving coffee with the team at Brooklake Church for over 25 years and is a perfect example of 1 Peter 4:10 “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Walter adored his family, which was his world. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his loving wife MeChelle of 30 unforgettable years together and five grateful children, Brandon, Victor, Samara, Son in law Brian Corliss and Claire, two deeply loved grandchildren Henry and Charlie and of course his precious dogs Edgar and King. He not only built a foundation with just play sets and slip and slides but built a foundation of family, love and traditions. Of the traditions he and MeChelle instilled in their family the most important was presence. The act of being present was their #1 with the gathering of friends and loved ones on a regular basis. They made their home open to all and stood ready with open arms. His family will carry on his many traditions like lasagna nights, game nights, and being the most festive home, the list is infinite.

The family wishes to thank St. Francis hospital for its thoughtfulness and overwhelming dedication. The doctors; Michael and Rajesh, nurses; April, Coco, Kristine, Rachel, Heather, and many others who took care of our beloved Walter.

In lieu of flowers, the family would suggest a donation to Valley Girls & Guys.  He has spent time volunteering for this cause because of his parent’s passing and the fight for a cure has always been close to his heart.

Celebration of Life will be held on January 22, 2022 at 10:00am, Brooklake Church, 629 S 356th St, Federal Way, WA 98003. A memorial luncheon to celebrate Walter’s spirit will follow. All are welcome.

Walter modeled a life well lived, and will forever remain in the hearts of those whose lives he touched. We love you.