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Walter Etling Obituary

Walter B. Etling, Jr. 88, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2014 in Gainesville, FL. Walter was born in Newark, NJ to Walter Sr. and Elsie Etling in 1926. A long-time Miami real estate broker and true "renaissance man," he left behind a rich legacy. As President of the Walter Etling Company he secured the old Miami News Tower as the central Cuban refugee center, named it the "Freedom Tower" and managed it for many years. A Trustee of the University, member of Iron Arrow and President of the UM Alumni Association (Alumnus of the Year in 1971), Athletic Federation and Sports Hall of Fame, he was instrumental in developing the "U" logo for the school. He served two terms as foreman of the Dade County Grand Jury and helped raise funds for a numerous. He was a longtime Director of the Key Biscayne Bank and a member of the Orange Bowl Committee, Miami Club (President) and Riviera Country Club, where he loved to play golf. A painter, musician and former drum major of the UM Band of the Hour, he was active in many cultural organizations and served as president or chairman of the Miami Museum of Science, Chopin Society and Napoleonic Society of America Foundation. Walter was predeceased by a sister Carol Thompson. He is survived by his daughter Tina Banner (Michael), son Russell, former wife Ann, granddaughter Jennifer Cassisi (Chris), 2 great-grandchildren Reese and Rex Cassisi, brother-in-law Art Thompson, and nephews and niece Scott Thompson (Daryl), Mark Thompson, Curt Thompson (Heather) and Heidi Nosich (Jim). There will be no services but the family ask that contributions be made in his memory to Haven Hospice, 4200 NW 90th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32606

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Miami Herald on Apr. 29, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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May 22, 2014

I was privileged to know Walter at Harbor Chase where my mother was also a resident. Walter charmed all the ladies at the afternoon domino game. I loved hearing his stories and looking at his drawings. He also enjoyed looking at my paintings when I brought them for my mother to see.
A couple of months ago Walter did a drawing on a canvas for me - a collaboration - he did the drawing and I painted it. Today I went to Harbor Chase to see what improvements Walter would suggest. I was sad to learn that he had passed. I am attaching a photo of the painting. I am offering it to Walter's family, and if I do not hear from them I will hang it at Harbor Chase in his memory.
Thank you Walter - a great artist, a great story teller and a great friend. Rest in peace.

April 30, 2014

My condolences to the Etling family. Mr. Walter Etling always had a warm smile for everyone. From a former Key Biscayne Bank employee. MCR

JANICE BUSH

April 29, 2014

My condolence to the ETLING family , so for your loss please let the god of all comfort , comfort you in the family time of distress.2CORTHIANS1 VERSE 34.

Joan Reitsma

April 29, 2014

Dear Tina and family, I am saddened to read of the passing of your wonderful father. I remember so well the support that he and your family gave to you and the Cavalier cheerleaders so many years ago. I send my deepest sympathy and prayers to you and your family. God's blessings!

Jen Cassisi

April 29, 2014

I am in awe at how one person can leave such a footprint on the world. The world is a better place because he lived. I am blessed to be able to call this amazing man my grandfather.

M González

April 29, 2014

My sympathies to the family and friends in the loss of Walter Etling. May the wonderful memories of he bring you much joy despite the grief and may you keep close to your hearts God's promise at John5:28.

Laura Costanzo

April 29, 2014

I will never forget Walter. He was such a magnificent man with a sense of humor and had the kindess heart and soul. My prayers are with his family during this sad time.

Bethany Baldwin Tesche

April 29, 2014

Dear Tina, Russell and Ann: I was saddened to read of Walters loss. I remember him in so many ways beginning as a teen when we used to go over to your house and he would be there bigger than life. Through the years it was being on committees with Walter on Hurricane Club/football, Orange Bowl Committees, some Museum /art show committees and more. It was fun to be around him with his smile and laughter. He always had nice things to say to all. He had a good life. Blessings to all, Bethany Baldwin Tesche

April 29, 2014

What wonderful memories of Walter and all his grand get togethers. My thoughts and prayers to the Etling Family.
Patty Smalley Bingham

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