Walter S. O'Malley

CLINTON

Walter S. O’Malley, 97, died Monday, October 9, 2017, in Notre Dame Long Term Care Center, Worcester, surrounded by the love of his family.

He is survived by a daughter, Maryann Rymsza, and her husband, Richard, of Chatham; a son, Walter F. O’Malley, and his wife, Marie, of Stow; six grandchildren: Richard, Peter, Stephen, and Christopher Rymsza, Matthew O’Malley, and Michaela Vitrano, and her husband, Robert; seven great-grandchildren: Ryan, Olivia, Paul, Sophia and Samantha Rymsza, and Jackson and Robert Vitrano; many nieces, nephews, and their families.  He was predeceased by his wife of 58 years, Mary F. “Naya” (McNally) O’Malley, who died in 2002, and their grandson, Paul Rymsza, who died in 1996.  Four brothers, John E. O’Malley, Jr., William J. O’Malley, Daniel D. O’Malley, Robert M. O’Malley, and a sister, Eileen A. Nekuda, also predeceased him.

Walter was born and raised in Clinton, son of John E. and Annie M. (Schofield) O’Malley, and was a life-long resident.  He was a graduate of Clinton High School, Class of 1938, and Worcester Academy, Class of 1940, of which he was Class President.  A gifted athlete, Walter excelled in both football and track during his time at CHS and Worcester Academy.  Despite his renowned athletic accomplishments, he remained unpretentious.  He was an avid football and track fan throughout his life. 

In 1942, he enlisted with the US Military, serving with both the Navy, and later, the Army, during WWII, before being Honorably Discharged. 

For 38 years before retirement, Walter worked for Mass Electric as a Head Lineman.  In addition, he served the Town of Clinton in various capacities, notably as a member of the School Committee, and the Water Commission, and the Local Draft Board during the height of the Vietnam War.  He also served as State Delegate for the Republican Committee.  He was life-member of St. John the Guardian of Our Lady Parish. 

Walter’s love of family will never be forgotten.  His laughter, enthusiasm for life and adventure, his great story-telling, wisdom, and generosity, will be greatly missed.  He was an avid reader, whose knowledge and foresight were profound, and years ahead of his time.  Walter will be forever in our thoughts and in our hearts.

Walter’s funeral will be held on Saturday, October 14, 2017 from the McNally & Watson Funeral Home, 304 Church St., with a Mass at 12:00 Noon in St. John the Evangelist Church, 80 Union St.,  Burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery, Lancaster.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours at the funeral home on Friday, October 13, 2017, from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations be made to Clinton High School, Attn: Athletic Department, 200 West Boylston St., Clinton, MA 01510.