Walter Dee Payne Sr. 91, of Battle Creek passed away peacefully on Friday, May 12, 2017. Walter was born on March 1, 1926 to Emmeritt and LaWave (Smith) Payne in Battle Creek.
Walter married Lorraine Hallock on June 3, 1950. He became a widower after 42 years of marriage. Walter served in the US Navy during WWII on the USS Lubbock. Walter worked for Speaker's Apothecary later becoming Zande's Apothecary for 46 years.
Walter had 5 children, Robert (Pauline) Dermyer, Joan (Thomas) Gray, Patricia (John) Swain, Debra (Asa) Kempton and Walter (Carlotta) Payne. Walter is survived by his sister Mary Cole, daughter Debra Kempton, granddaughters Jenny Swain, Misti (Jeremai) Cook, Courtney (Nick) Metty, Lisa (Mike) Slaughter, Kristina (Monty) Lechien, Davina (John) Martin, Teresa Dermyer, Kristen Kempton, Kelly (Kevin) Bunn, Amy Brehm, Tiffany Kempton and grandsonsThomas (Jean) Gray, Derrick, Kevin and Mitchell Eggerstedt, several great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren and special daughter in law JoAnn (Rick) Christian. Walter was proceeded in death by his wife, 4 children, 2 brothers, 1 sister and 1 son-in-law. Walter had many hobbies that included hunting, fishing, bowling, watching the Tiger's, crossword puzzles, reading and watching Westerns. Or you could find him watching Mash, Bonanza, Gun Smoke, Andy Griffith or The Price is Right, just ask any of the grandkids or great grandkids. But his greatest love was his family. His love for all of them was never ending.