Walter Dean Dittmer

1942 - 2015

Walter Dean Walt' Dittmer November 1, 1942 - December 7, 2015 La Jolla Walt Dittmer passed away in his home with his beloved wife, Christa, by his side on December 7, 2015, in La Jolla, CA. Walt was 73 and passed due to complications following a cancer diagnosis. Walt was born on November 1, 1942, in Peoria, Illinois, to his parents, Walter F. Dittmer and Lucille (Cotton) Dittmer. He attended the University of Illinois where he received his bachelor's and master's degrees in engineering. Upon graduation, Walt accepted a commission in the United States Air Force and served in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Upon completing service, Walt pursued a long and successful career in the development of innovative processes for composite material manufacturing for aerospace and other industries. He moved to California from Westford, MA, in 1974. He married his wife, Christa, on June 18, 2007, in a small family ceremony on the beach in La Jolla. Walt was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He was a model train enthusiast, accomplished in wood working, and enjoyed traveling and time spent with his family. He is remembered for his positive outlook and natural optimism, a trait that lifted the spirits of those around him and buoyed his family in difficult times. Walt is survived by his wife, Christa Burke Dittmer of La Jolla, CA; daughter, Ashley (Jordan) Jungwirth of Oshkosh, WI; sons, Todd (Mignon) Dittmer of Goodyear, AZ, Michael (Casey) Dittmer of Roseville, CA, and Christopher Dittmer of San Francisco, CA; brothers, Gary Dittmer of St. Charles, IL, and Dennis Dittmer of Urbana, IL; and his six grandchildren, Alyssa, Jordan, Michael, Mackenzie, Mollie and Elliot. Walt was preceded in death by his father, Walter Dittmer, and mother, Lucille Dittmer.A memorial service will take place after the holidays, the time and place has yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers and condolences, please make a donation to your local Hospice Organization. Please sign the guest book online at legacy.com/obituaries/ lajollalight .