Walter Frank Felber

Walter Frank Felber, a beloved husband, stepfather, grandfather, and innovator, passed away on August 2, 2024, at the age of 94 in Carlsbad, California. Born on February 13, 1930, in Zell am See, Salzburg, Austria, Walter's life journey was one of resilience, grit, passion, and remarkable achievements.

Walter's early years were marked by the trials of World War II, which he survived with an indomitable spirit. As a young child, he learned fluent English and Tibetan from a Canadian mountain climber living in Austria, a unique skill set that would shape his future. In 1945, in the final days of the war, the Nazis forcibly recruited children to fight, including kidnapping a young 15-year-old Walter. Fortunately, World War II ended not long after, and he was able to return home to his family and a city devastated by years of bombings. After the war, Walter used his language skills and proudly served as an English translator for the occupying Canadian, British, and American forces during his teenage years.

In 1952, Walter immigrated to Vancouver, Canada, and later to the United States. He pursued his education with fervor, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree from Heald Engineering College in San Francisco, California, in 1959. His talent in the early years of modern electronics was recognized by the Datex Corporation in Monrovia, California, where he became a valuable member of a team that produced large machines manufacturing major components for the F-111 and other fighter aircraft. His professional career flourished as he became a founder of Eaton Leonard Corporation, where he designed their tube bending machine, holding the 1975 patent for his innovative design.

In 1975, Walter met the love of his life, Lorraine Voss. Their love story led them to Carlsbad, California, in 1978, where Walter embraced his role as a stepfather to Lorraine's three children, Bruce, Pam, and Sandra, and a devoted grandfather to Ian and Cameron.

Walter was a man of many passions. He loved reading, traveling, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He was dedicated to helping others find healthy alternative methods to heal their bodies and illnesses. Walter remained active well into his 90s, often seen walking several miles daily through the hills of Carlsbad or dining at his favorite restaurant, Tip Top Meats.

A proud American, Walter epitomized the American Dream. His life was a testament to perseverance, hard work, and the pursuit of happiness. Walter is survived by his stepson Bruce Voss of Newport Beach, CA; his grandsons Major Ian Voss, USMC of Oceanside, CA, and Cameron Voss of Escondido, CA; his nephew Volker Felber of Tyrol, Austria; his great-nephew Walter Felber of Tyrol, Austria; and his great-niece Gabriele O'Hara of Sydney, Australia.

Walter's legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the countless lives he touched with his kindness, wisdom, and inventive spirit. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered. Walter's life will be celebrated at 11:00 am on September 28, 2024, at the Batiquitos Lagoon Foundation located at 7380 Gabbiano Lane, Carlsbad, CA 92011. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested for Walter's favorite charity, the United Service Organization (USO). May he rest in peace.