Walter Norman McJilton

Walter Norman McJilton of Downingtown Walter Norman McJilton, 88, passed away April 20, 2012, at Tel Hai Retirement Community, Honeybrook, surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband, of 63 years, of Roberta Ann McJilton (nee, Buell). Born and raised in Sparrows Point, Md., he was the son of S. Walter and Virginia (Webster) McJilton. After graduation from Sparrows Point High School, he joined the Army Air Corps, where he served as a Master Navigator during World War II. After the war ended, he received his bachelor of arts in mathematics from Western Maryland College. He earned his masters degree in physics from Boston University. He continued his education at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Md., Ohio State University, Immaculata College, and West Chester State University. He served in the Air Force until his retirement in 1969, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was primarily involved in Research and Development at Wright Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio, the Pentagon, and Andrews Air Force Base, Suitland, Md. He received two Air Force commendation medals, and had numerous articles published in government and scientific publications. After retirement he bought a home in Downingtown and worked as a mission analyst for General Electric, then worked for the Army, doing research for ballistic research laboratories and human research laboratories. Walter is survived by his lovely wife, Bobbi, and their children: Carol (James) Guth, of Montgomery Village, Md., John (Keyna) McJilton, Susan (Jack) Founds, Patricia (Pete) Ciorrocco, and Robert (Katie Feldman) McJilton, all of Downingtown; 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren also survive him. He was predeceased by his siblings Dorothy Lee, Richard, and Marvin. Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 25 and to his funeral service at 11 a.m., at Thorndale Baptist Church, 1920 E. Kings Highway, Coatesville. Interment will be at Northwood Cemetery, Downingtown, with reception to follow at Thorndale Baptist Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the Thorndale Baptist Church Playground Fund at the above address, would be appreciated. Arrangements by The Donohue Funeral Home, 43 W. Lancaster Ave, Downingtown, 610-269-3080. Online at www.donohuefuneralhome.com.