Rev. Eugene H Walters

Rev. Eugene H. Walters, born in Portland, OR, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 in Vancouver, WA on Feb. 24, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years and the love of his life, Carolann (Snarr) Walters, in 2016. He is survived by his 3 children, Dan Lerch-Walters (Debbie), Steven Walters (Naomi), and Jeannine (Walters) Christensen (Garry), three grandchildren, Jana (Christensen) Rielly , Molly Christensen, Danielle Lerch-Walters, and two great-grandchildren, Hudson and Evelyn Rielly. He also had 6 foster children.

Eugene was a graduate of Willamette University in Salem OR then attended seminary school at Drew Theological Seminary University in New Jersey where he received his Master of Divinity degree. Upon graduation he began his ministry with his wife at Linden Ave Methodist Church in Jersey City, NJ.

He then joined the Oregon-Idaho Conference of the United Methodist Church and went on to serve Vermont UMC in Portland OR. His next calling was to be a missionary in Alaska where he opened a Wesley House for young adults while also serving as Associate Pastor at First UMC Fairbanks for 3 years, which was followed by 5 years at Anchorage UMC.

While in Alaska, Eugene enjoyed outdoor camping with his family, fishing, hunting moose and caribou, and exploring all that Alaska had to offer.

Upon returning to Oregon, he served at several churches. He built a church in Aloha OR, served Ebert UMC in Springfield OR and Christ UMC in Cedar Hills. Before retiring in 1995, his final assignment was Markham UMC and Carus UMC , a double assignment.

One of Eugene's great hobbies was collecting coins and stamps, especially ones from the island of Tonga and entering them in stamp shows. He also enjoyed participating in each church choir and bell choir if there was one.

Retirement meant moving to Vancouver, WA to be closer to their daughter and two grandchildren.

In retirement, on multiple occasions, he was invited to Moloka'i Hawaii to fill in as an interim pastor. They fell in love with the island of Moloka'i and its people and would spend several months a year there.

Eugene's love of ministering, compassion, kindness, and general presence, left an impression on everyone he encountered.

A memorial service will be held Saturday April 18, 2026 at 2 PM at First United Methodist Church, 401 E. 33rd St, Vancouver, WA

Friends and family are invited to celebrate his life, faith, and devotion to others.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Vancouver First United Methodist Church Allegro Campaign, for worship and organ renewal. 401 E. 33rd St Vancouver, WA 98663