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BORN
1942
DIED
2016
Walter Gilmour Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Walter Gilmour
Sponsored by Sam Barnard.
Leland Hale
February 1, 2025
[Edit] Hardly a day goes by when I don´t think about this man. Oh the conversations we could have!
leland hale
January 31, 2025
Hardly a day goes by when I don´t of this man! Oh the conversations we could have...
Sandra Belcher
January 31, 2021
Walter was a great boss and a great friend. God Bless
Leland Hale
January 31, 2021
Walter was always an inspiration - now more than ever. His stubborn dedication to the truth, however uncomfortable, still guides me. More than that, his willingness to go through the oft difficult passage to understanding was a hallmark. We were very different people, coming at things from very different perspectives, but our discussions were lively and respectful. I dearly miss them!
Sandy Belcher
January 31, 2020
I have missed Walter every time I see FB posts from Virginia, Cheryl, Andrea and other family members - missed that smile and some of his goofy antics - Walter you were called Uncle Walt by my kids - they really loved you. :-)
Werner Sund
January 31, 2020
Still remembering the good times with Walt during our high school years which were over 60 years ago. So even though he has left us he lives on in our memories.
Roger Ellis
January 31, 2020
Walter and Family, he is still missed by all who was gifted to know him. I am retiring from Law Enforcement after 47 years and am forever grateful for Walt's guidance and friendship. Roger Ellis, AST 1978 to 1998; Chief of Police, Forsyth Missouri.
June 27, 2016
I WILL MISS YOU MORE THAN ANYONE WILL EVER KNOW
Robert E. Williams
May 30, 2016
I remember Lt Walt Gilmore, Sitka 1975. A "WARRIOR", a man of Character, Courage and Compassion! A pioneer for AST.
Vaya Con Dios, Walt
Andrea Kramer
March 6, 2016
It's hard to come up with the words for a man who meant so much to so many people, but especially to me. Big Walt taught us so much from when we were kids and until the day he passed. When growing up I never understood the methods to our activities (as I'm sure that is true for most kids). For example, I never truly understood why Jon and I had to row out in a canoe to the middle of Wasilla Lake and then Big Walt would flip the canoe over and Jon and I would have to re-flip the canoe right side up and get into it and row back to shore (half full of water mind you). This was not a onetime occurrence either! I thought he was silently torturing us until 20 years later I was stranded in the Rogue River with friends and was able to get us to shore safely. Big Walt's integrity, loyalty and love is what I admired most about him. He helped shape me into the person I am today and for that I am entirely grateful. Big Walt you will be forever missed and never forgotten.
Sam Barnard
February 27, 2016
Walt Gilmour was my boss through much of my carreer. He demanded much but he never asked me to do something that he would not do himself. He stood by me and for me and he helped shape my life. He will always be remembered.
Bob (Biff) Meyer
February 17, 2016
Jenny, Cheryl and John: Our condolences over Johnny's (Walter to non-family members) passing, he lived a good productive and inspirational live. I couldn't admit it at the time, but he served as my older brother in addition to being my cousin. While growing up in Ketchikan he always had my respect (even though he broke my arm when we were 6 and 7) and admiration. As adults, we followed different paths but always managed to stay in touch through family members and occasional meetings on the ski slopes. Johnny was always a leader and my mentor. Early in his career, he had a meeting with a moose and requited facial reconstruction and one day after returning to the force he was meeting the flight from Kodiak (in those days, AST meet all incoming flights from Kodiak) we meet for the first time after 7 years. On disembarking the aircraft, I saw the tall trooper guarding the gate and our eyes locked. I thought I recognized him but the face wasn't right. From his body language I sensed that some thing was about to happen, but then when we were about a stride apart, he relaxed and at that same instant we recognized each other. We exchanged greetings, tried to catch up on family news and I learned that he also thought he recognized me but rather than going through the mental family photo album he was going through his file of wanted posters. Always the trooper!
According to my wife Marjorie, Johnny was good people!
His passing leaves a hole in our lives but our memories of him bring happiness. See you on the other side.
Roger Ellis
February 16, 2016
Walter will forever be in our hearts and memories of his time with AST. May God comfort in his arms Virginia, Cheryl, and Walter Jr., along with the rest of the Gilmour family by giving them peace and comfort knowing that Walter is in Heaven guarding all that is dearest to our Lord.
February 15, 2016
An expression of sympathy to Virginia, Cheryl, Andrea, Jon and our son, Chris only scratches the surface of how sorrowful we are for your unexpected loss. Walt had infectious smile. He shared his wisdom and opinions openly and listened thoughtfully to differing points of view. As an ex-son-in-law, he positively influenced my life, as he did for thousands of other Alaskans. Walt's kindness and generosity extended beyond his immediate family; he embraced our other son as one of his own. In the years to come I expect a smile will cross my face when I notice one of his Grandfather attribute in Chris' mannerisms. We are blessed to have known Walter Gilmour and privilege to have his inheritable characteristics within our family. Walter Gilmour rest in peace knowing your life made a tremendous difference to those you touched.
Respectfully,
Brent and Ellen Koenen
Brent Koenen
February 15, 2016
An expression of sympathy to Virginia, Cheryl, Andrea, Jon and our son, Chris only scratches the surface of how sorrowful we are for your unexpected loss. Walt had infectious smile. He shared his wisdom and opinions openly and listened thoughtfully to differing points of view. As an ex-son-in-law, he positively influenced my life, as he did for thousands of other Alaskans. Walt's kindness and generosity extended beyond his immediate family; he embraced our other son as one of his own. In the years to come I expect a smile will cross my face when I notice one of his Grandfather attribute in Chris' mannerisms. We are blessed to have known Walter Gilmour and privilege to have his inheritable characteristics within our family. Walter Gilmour rest in peace knowing your life made tremendous difference to those you touched!
Respectfully,
Brent and Ellen Koenen
Sharon Burke
February 14, 2016
My thoughts and prayers are with Virginia and the rest of his family. I knew Walt for almost 40 years and had the privilege of calling him my friend. He will be missed.
lonnie ivanoff
February 12, 2016
i can remember when i was a kid a trooper walking down main street with a bag of candy and sharing us kids. very nice man.i always wanted to be trooper , he was a man of man.
Charlie Grutzmacher
February 11, 2016
What a wonderful picture in the guest book. It is the face you picture in your mind when you hear; "ALASKA STATE TROOPER", "INTEGRITY", "DEDICATION". This man will be remembered for ever. He is my friend!
Alene Hoover (Burke)
February 9, 2016
Ginny,
Remembering Walt and you from our Kayhi days with great fondness...you and your family are in my prayers.
patsy cronin
February 9, 2016
I have heard so many nice things about Walt Gilmour. My condolences to Virginia and family.
February 9, 2016
My condolences to Virginia and family. Walt was the academy commandeer when I attended the 27th recruit academy. He was supportive then and throughout my career. I will miss seeing him this summer.
February 9, 2016
We want to express our deepest sympathies to the Gilmour Family during this difficult time. Over our time in the Troopers Walt was an inspiration and role model and very supportive of those living in rural Alaska. Thank you and Godspeed.
Joe and Lori D'Amico
Natalie Ayerst Baumgartner
February 8, 2016
Having not seen him since we were in elementary and high school, it was a bittersweet surprise to learn of his passing. Reading about his life through the Obituary and the messages from his friends, it is heartwarming to know that he made such a positive impact on so many lives. Condolences to his family.
Jeanne Santacrose Franklin
February 8, 2016
My deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences for his family and friends. Though I never had the pleasure to meet you, I saw your great worth in your son. Walter my heart weeps for you.
"A person's true wealth is the good he or she does in the world".
Lowell & Suzanne Janson
February 8, 2016
Walt was a great friend; backup, professional, role model to the younger troops, and a inspiration to those around him. He exemplified the AST credo "Loyalty, Integrity, Courage"!
Thanks for passing our way, old friend! We're all better for it!
Best to Ginny and family.
Lowell & Suzanne Janson
San Carlos, Mexico
Kathy McLinden (formerly Wolgemuth)
February 8, 2016
Virginia and family-I was deeply saddened to hear of your loss. Major Gilmour was such an awesome guy; brilliant, inspirational and funny with a contagious smile that I won't forget. Loved learning from him during my 12 years with the AST. I even got to know him a little deeper with a video camera in his face during the fun yet challenging SOME Runs--blisters and all! Truly a "gentle giant" as others have said. My deepest sympathies to you and your family, Virginia. He will be sorely missed by all.
Gayle Kildal
February 8, 2016
I never had the privilege of knowing Walt, but I heard a lot about him and am sorry I didn't get a chance to know him. He was loved and respected by those he worked with and supervised. Prayers for the family.
Bev Kirk
February 7, 2016
Such a kind, wise, truly gifted, precious man, gone too soon. I learned so much from him during our years together in ASDF, particularly working with the Academy candidates. COL Gilmour never left at the end of drill without coming into the office, shaking our hands, and thanking us for our tireless service. Integrity and dedication defined his life, all combined with that unique, sparkling sense of humor. I have been privileged to know and work with many amazing, wonderful people, but none more inspiring and insightful than COL Gilmour. He was truly one of the very finest of men. We'll carry on here, sir, until we meet again on the other side. My prayers and thoughts are with your family.
Leland Hale
February 7, 2016
It was my great privilege to collaborate with Walter on "Butcher, Baker." It was an even greater privilege to call him friend. He was a force of nature, bigger than life, who saw things as they are, not what they pretend to be. He wasn't content to break the mold -- he had to build his own! Miss you buddy!
Virginia Gilmour
February 7, 2016
I want to thank everyone for your support. Your comments, stories & thoughtfulness are so very appreciated by myself, my children & my grandchildren.
Jeff Hall
February 7, 2016
As a young trooper, I was amazed, and influenced by, Major G's ability to run a tight ship with a sense of humor. He once told me "I like you Hall; I like the fact you're aggressive. It won't keep me from firing you, but I want you to know I like you". Airborne, All the Way.
My deepest condolences to the family.
February 7, 2016
My deepest sympathy to the familyand friends for a great loss of the most inspiring person I knew. There is a trend to all of these posts Walt was the one that helped me grow up as a young trooper. He was the best commander I ever had and inspired me to be the best I could be. It was great to see him at the Chehalis reunions every year and get to know him as a true friend instead of a supervisor. I will miss our talks Walt
Karma Krogh
Susie
February 7, 2016
My deepest sympathy for the loss of your loved one. May you find comfort in knowing that those who die, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes.
Carl Wright
February 7, 2016
To the Gilmour Family, my deepest sympathy. Although I only met Walt at the AST Reunion in July, I was well aware of his reputation. Walt leaves us with a wonderful testimony of being one of the remarkable Trooper's that set the cadence for those of us that followed to march by. Walt, a man highly respected and admired that will truly be missed.
Pat Kasnick
February 7, 2016
Walter was the single-most positive influence on my career with AST. For him Loyalty, Integrity, Courage wasn't just a slogan he lived it and expected others in the troopers to live it also. He taught me that you must always do the right thing for the right reason, a life lesson that has stayed with me personally and professionally to this day. To Virginia and Walt's family, I wish I had the words to help ease your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
CAROL LEHMAN
February 7, 2016
OUR SONS ARE BOTH POLICE OFFICERS, I AM SO PROUD OF THEM. THANK YOU WALTER FOR YOUR AMAZING SERVICE.
February 6, 2016
I have lovely memories of a man with a grand sense of humor.
Vienna Vaden
Glenn Flothe
February 6, 2016
If it had not been for Walt's encouragement I would never have imagined becoming an Alaska State Trooper. He saw something in me that I didn't see in myself, and for that I will be forever grateful. Walt inspired me to be the best I could be. Our hearts go out Virginia and the Gilmour family.
Glenn & Cheryl Flothe
Rob & Toni McGraw
February 6, 2016
A friend for over 40 years. God bless you Walt. Sincere condolences to Virginia and family.
Norm Carson
February 6, 2016
Walt: You made us all better; thank you for your leadership and friendship.
LAURA CAPERTON
February 6, 2016
There are not enough words. Suffice to say he taught me some of the most important things I know. He was a giant of a man with a soft heart. His family meant everything to him, and he was kind enough to always ask how mine was doing. His mentoring always brought me a step forward and his challenges were always on point to help me be a better person. God bless his spirit, and prayers for Virginia, Cheryl and all the rest. I can imagine Walt up there talking with Barry Ingalls ...two remarkable men, who were my precious friends..
February 6, 2016
What an accomplished man . I knew him and his family after he retired at the reunions in Chehalis. A very happy family man with lots of stories to tell.
May he continue to tell his stories in the hereafter while watching over his loved ones left behind.
Dee Gowan ( Tucson, Az)
Ginny and Tom Main
February 6, 2016
Dear Virginia and Family,
Our sincere condolences to you on you loss. We consider ourselves fortunate to have had Walt as a friend.
Becky Leonard
February 6, 2016
My condolences to the Gilmour family in their time of grief. Another good man gone.
Dick & Syd Burton
February 6, 2016
Virginia,
Sydney and I were shocked to hear about Walt. She of course went to high school with you and thought a lot of you both.
I had the privilege of knowing Walt and his basket ball feats when I was on the KPD in the late 50s. Later he worked for me when he was the trooper in Sitka. Always kept me on my toes and was fun to work with. He'll be missed by all who knew him
Bob & Carolyn Jent
February 6, 2016
Walt - I worked with you and respected you. I'll see you on the other side.
Tom Anderson
February 6, 2016
Rest in peace old friend. Deepest condolences to Virginia and family.
Werner Suns
February 6, 2016
Glad we stopped by this summer. He will be missed. Our prayers to Ginny and the family.
Stan & Bonnie Oaksmith
February 6, 2016
So sorry to hear this news. Our sincere condolences to Ginny and family.
February 6, 2016
We're very sorry to hear of Walt's tragoc death. Condolences to Virginia, Cheryl and Wally. Freda & Terry McConnaughey
Debbie Pusich
February 6, 2016
Going to miss you Walter. You were always there for anyone. Help, learning, protection and fun.
Joe and Margaret DeTemple
February 6, 2016
R.I.P Walt, you will be missed old friend. Condolences to Virginia, Walt and Cheryl.
Pat Wellington
February 6, 2016
Walt was a great Trooper and it was my honor to both know him and work with him,Walt take care my friend until we meet again.
Marilyn and Dennis Cook
February 6, 2016
Dear Virginia, Cheryl, Walt Jr. Andrea & family,
We send our sympathy, love and prayers as we share these heart felt remembrances.
We treasure our thoughts of him as you do.
Our eyes leak, too, as we see his infectuous smile. We know that he was always ready to lead the charge to right the wrong; we'd immitate his style, the best we could, always remembering to "flash a quick smile, then the bad guy won't know what you're up to!" I took his advise and with great confidence followed my dream at AST.
He was a Major who majored in compassion for all mankind; the good, the bad, and the ugly. He is a man on a mission even now in his Great Commission; leading by his example thru his legacy that lives on!
His God given legacy is ever lifting our spirits and encouraging our hearts to be vigilant, be courageous, be honorable in our dealings and be courteous as we continue to be the instrument of peace to help right the wrong.
He reminded me, that it's ok to be myself, "You can even do this career with a song in your heart and a spring in your step; then when it is time to rumble you won't be frozen up in knots, and most importantly, you WILL be able to 'DO something when action is required." Such a great man of wisdom!
Thank you Virginia and family for sharing your loved one with us all these many years!!
Carolinda Wright
February 6, 2016
Met Walt at the AST reunion last year. He was a really nice man. Well respected and loved by those who knew him. Such a sad loss. May your family find comfort at this time. He's probably talking stories with his buddy Dale Gibson right now.
Outi Henry
February 6, 2016
What a great man he was! Life well lived! Our deepest condolences to the Gilmour family! You are in our thoughts, and prayers!
Tom Jasper
February 6, 2016
I am SO sorry about Big Walt. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I hope that fond memories and all the photos of him will help ease your pain over time. God bless and comfort you all.
February 6, 2016
Walt will be missed---a GOOD man!!! Met him on the SOME trooper run many years ago. Prayers for the family, Dorothy Bierman
February 6, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Virginia, and your family during this most difficult time. Rest in peace, Walt, on your transfer to your new duty station.
~ Gene & Carol Kallus, Soldotna, AK
Bill Bailey
February 6, 2016
Walt was a great team mate at K High In both basketball and track. My deepest sympathy to Walt's family.
Sandy Belcher
February 6, 2016
God Bless and Rest In Peace my dear Friend. You are missed terribly. Prayers and Love Virginia and Family.
Sherrie Wick
February 6, 2016
So very sorry to hear of Walters death, I remember he and his wife, Virginia, from High School. Sincerely, Sherrie(King) Wick
February 6, 2016
My deepest sympathy, Virginia. I wish that words could help you and I trust that you are with family now. All too soon and Walt will be missed by so many of us.
With love, H.J. "Syd" Sydnam
Barrry Pegram
February 6, 2016
Condolences to family members of Walt Gilmour. RIP,you've earned it.
Joseph Turner
February 6, 2016
Our thoughts and prayers for Virginia and family. Rest in peace my friend.
Steve & Judy Reynolds
February 6, 2016
Rest in Peace, dear friend. Our condolences to Virginia, Cheryl, Walter Jr., and the family.
Steve & Judy Reynolds
February 6, 2016
Our condolences to dear Virginia, Cheryl, Walter Jr., and the rest of the family.
B.D.
February 6, 2016
I am so sorry for your great loss. . . . my deepest sympathy goes out to family and friends. may the God of comfort help you though the days to come.
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