WALTER ZISETTE

Walter Graves Zisette Devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and uncle, and a long time resident of Mercer Island and Gig Harbor, Walter died peacefully on the morning of September 11, 2013. Walter is survived by his wife, June; daughter Mary Zisette Gilbert of Gig Harbor; his sons, Walter (Seattle), Donald (Langley); and Matthew (Manhattan Beach, California); and sister Mary Zisette Olmsted (Chatham, Massachusetts). Thirteen grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends also celebrate the life of this wise and loving man. Walter was born on May 25, 1928 in Cleveland, Ohio to Caroline Graves Zisette and Reginald Robert Zisette. Walter was one of three children, including younger sister, Mary, and older brother, Reginald Robert. Walter was a graduate of St. Marks Episcopal Academy, Yale University, and the University of Pennsylvania. Walter served his country with distinction earning the Ari Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross in the Korean War as an Air Force Captain. Walter worked for Pan American World Airways and the Boeing Company, in its Commercial Sales Division. Prior to Gig Harbor, Walter had many homes including: Glendale, OH, Philadelphia, Huntington, NY, Los Angeles, Mercer Island, Palm Desert, CA, and Chatham, MA. Walter was an avid sportsman, enjoying: sailing, hiking, tennis, and long distance running. He also loved a good mystery novel. Walter was present for nearly every sunrise of his long life. While working in Los Angeles, he met his wife of 55 years. From the moment of their commitment to each other, a family grew - a family to which Walter gave his wisdom, his heart and his soul. A memorial service will be held in Gig Harbor at 3 PM, on October 12 at St. John's Episcopal Church. Gifts and remembrances in his name may be made to Tacoma/ Pierce County Habitat for Humanity, or charity of choice.