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Franklin Walter Obituary

WALTER Franklin B. Walter, age 80, of Upper Arlington, died one day before his 81st birthday, September 15, 2010 at his home. He was born September 16, 1929 in Lagrange, Indiana, the son of Rollo and Lola (Baker) Walter. A lifetime educator, Frank was the State of Ohio Superintendent of Public Instruction for 14 years. He was preceded in death by his wife Lois Jane (Weber) Walter. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, he is survived by his sons and daughter-in-law, Ron Walter, Upper Arlington and Bob (Barbara) Walter, of Columbus; grandchildren, Spencer and Hunter Walter; brother, Ned (Bonnie) Walter; sister, Loma (Bernard) Hoffman; several nieces and nephews and many friends. Friends may call 12:30-2:30 and 7- 9 p.m. Monday at SCHOEDINGER NORTH-WEST CHAPEL, 1740 Zollinger Road. Funeral Service will be held 10 a.m. Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 2001 Northwest Blvd. with Pastor Steven Wachtman officiating. Interment Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Franklin B. and Jane Walter Scholarship Fund, c/o The Ohio State University, 1480 W. Lane Avenue; Room 125, Columbus, OH 43221, in his memory. Visit www.schoedinger.com to send condolences to his family.

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

Published by The Columbus Dispatch from Sep. 17 to Sep. 19, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
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kaye Musick

September 29, 2010

Mr Walter was a great man. His light-hearted manner made it a pleasure to work for him. His Generosity new no bounds . He will be greatly missed.

Bev Russell

September 22, 2010

I worked with Dr. Walter at ODE. This is a tremendous lost for education. I can remember whenever he would walk through the building, he would greet every single employee by name, incredible!! We were blessed to know him! You have my deepest sympathy.

Donna Craven

September 22, 2010

Ron, I don't know if you remember, but you and I were UA classmates and Holy Trinity confirmands. Your dad gave me my first job and I will be forever grateful. I am sorry for your loss and hope that your faith will give you strength and your memories will ease the pain of grief.

Fred & Roberta Wolfe

September 21, 2010

We just returned from a trip to visit some friends, and was notified of the passing of Dr. Franklin B. Walter, one of the finest educators to ever occupy the position of State Superintendent of Public Instruction for the State of Ohio.

Frank was a mentor and friend to many district superintendents during my tenure in public education in the State of Ohio. He fostered a close working relationship between the Ohio Department of Education and the state's public school districts. The educators in the field considered ODE a "partner" in school improvement, and deeply respected and admired the skills of Dr.Walter to work with the leaders of both policital parties to improve public eduction.

May God bless Franklin B. Walter and his fsmily and friends during these diffcult times. He is now at peace in a much better place with his beloved Jane at his side.

September 21, 2010

Frank was a good friend and professional mentor to me and many other educators. He will be remebered and respected for his contributions to education in Ohio and the nation.

Phil Tieman

Michael Johnson

September 21, 2010

Ohio's national and international reputation for excellence in educations can be attributed to Frank Walter's leadership and dedication to the needs and interest of youth. Frank leaves a powerful legacy as a result of his encouragement and development of so many capable educational leaders in Ohio. He will remain my hero and role model forever.

Becky MacFadyen Dunn

September 20, 2010

Eventhough he was my dads cousin we always called him "Uncle Frank." There were memories of swimming in the pool in Upper Arlington or when "Aunt Jane" and "Uncle Frank" held a college graduation celebration for my brother David. He will be missed and remembered by many.

September 19, 2010

Our deepest sympathy to the Walter family, Alice Adkins, Gale and Janet Adkins, David and Janie Adkins, and Rick and Diane Speakman.

September 19, 2010

DR. WALTER WILL LONG BE REMEMBERED FOR HIS EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP TO OHIO'S PUBLIC SCHOOLS. A TRUE GENTLEMAN AND SCHOLAR WHOSE MEMORY WILL LIVE ON IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE WHO KNEW AND RESPECTED HIM . CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY , JUDY HOWARD RHODE

Doris Edwards

September 19, 2010

We were students at Johnsville New Lebanon (Dixie- Class of 1962) High School where Dr. Franklin was superintendent before his move to Columbus and the Ohio Board of Education. We respected him for the "can do" attitude he fostered among us. We didn't know we were poor. His community involvement was a positive force for good in our rural area. We extend our sympathy to his loved ones...know that he is remembered fondly. Go in peace, faithful servant. Neil and Doris (Steck) Edwards

Keith Richards

September 17, 2010

Truly a great statesman and leader! He was a friend to anyone that cared about public education and the boys and girls in our schools. Frank would always stand for what was right and without concern for who received the credit. The list of those of us that considered him our mentor and friend is too long to list. To his family, thank you for sharing him with all of us. Ohio is a better place because of Franklin B. Walter. We all mourn the loss of a great person.

Joey Pedigo

September 17, 2010

Ron, Bob and Family, I want to extend my sincere condolences in the loss of your father. I have many fond memories of times visiting with you all in the past. In 1966 I came up from AL for a 2 week seminar at Western Reserve and was shown great hospitality during those weeks. Jane took me shopping, Ron and I went bowling and I went with the family to Warren where Frank was interviewing. My heart goes out to you all at this time. Your cousin, Joey

Christine Ferguson

September 17, 2010

What a wonderful man this world has lost! He left a legacy of good will!

Prayers to those left behind!
Sincerely, Chris and John Ferguson

Gail Davis

September 17, 2010

I worked with Dr. Walters at the Ohio Department of Education, was always friendly and always said hello. It has been my pleasure knowing him. May God comfort you at this time.

Sherry Young

September 17, 2010

Dr. Walter was a true inspiration and great mentor as I began my career with the Department of Education in the early 70's. He was one of the nicest people I was fortunate enough to know. I will never forget his kindness, understanding, and patience with me as I began my responsibilities in the administrative offices and he will be sorely missed by all whose lives he so richly touched.

September 17, 2010

I thank you for all the help and support you have given me over the years. You are an inspiration to me and I will always remember you for the friendship you showed me. Thanks for being the leader you are.
Ron Heitmeyer

Phil Hamilton

September 17, 2010

A true leader in his field, A friend for over 30 years,.Phil Hamilton

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