Francis "Junior" Walter

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Francis "Junior" Walter our cherished husband, father, pop, brother, and friend. He was a man of witty humor and wisdom, never failing to render his opinion on any subject. He had a very giving and gracious heart and met everything in life with determination and love. He had a tremendous impact on many.
Fran was born in Sunbury, PA, on November 11, 1947, to Margaret and Francis Walter, and eventually embraced by Myra and Pierce Walter, of Sunbury. Known as "Junior" in high school, he graduated from Shikellamy High School in the great class of 1967 where he was an outstanding athlete in football, wrestling, and track.
Junior was so proud to be part of the 1965, 1966 unbeaten Braves football teams that went on to play in the state championships, winning in 1965 against Blakley at Bucknell Stadium. He was a big part of their success. Before his senior year, Kick-Off Magazine nominated Junior to the 1966 All-American team. He certainly earned it by scoring 25 touchdowns while rushing for 1958 yards that year. He also garnered an entry into Sports Illustrated Magazine for scoring a touchdown on the first 4 times he touched the ball in the first quarter of a game. The total yardage for all 4 touches was 330 yards. Junior also represented Pennsylvania in the Big 33 Game in 1967.
After high school, Junior attended Oklahoma State University, where he played football and obtained a degree in Education in 1972. Professionally, Fran taught driver education at Salisbury High School for 30 years. He also established Walter's Driving School in the Lehigh Valley in 1974. There was nowhere he could go without someone saying, "Hey Mr. Walter, you taught me how to drive!"
Francis' contribution to the community was being elected and serving on the Board of Commissioners of Salisbury Township, and as president for 16 years. During his tenure, many projects were started in the township such as the Lehigh Valley Health Network Hospital on Cedar Crest Blvd.
Fran's biggest joy was his family. He married his high school sweetheart; Ruth Bollinger and they were married for 54 years. Together they raised 2 daughters, Kelley and Laurie. Fran took great pride in being a husband and father. Together they traveled, socialized with friends and neighbors, and went on many adventures. In addition to his role as husband and father, he truly enjoyed being a "Pop" to his grandchildren.
In his final years, Fran's best times were spent playing cards and pool with his buddies at Four Seasons at Farmington and traveling with his friends.
Francis is survived by his wife Ruth, daughters Kelley Schaaf, husband Mark, and Laurie Cybuck, husband Michael, grandkids Brendan Schaaf, Alex Schaaf, Emery Cybuck, and Benjamin Cybuck, sisters, Vickie Walter, Janet Bain, husband Bob, Judy Newcomer, husband Dave, Joyce Walter, wife Kym, and many wonderful nieces and nephews.
Fran's life was a testimony in strength, determination, and love. He will be missed by all who knew him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 12:00 PM. A Calling hour will be held from 11:00-12:00, at Stephens Funeral Home, 274 N. Krocks Rd. Allentown, PA.
Contributions in Fran's memory may be made to the Shikellamy Athletic Department, C/O Brian Manning 200 Island Blvd. Sunbury, PA 17801.