Walter Eschtruth

Walter Laverne Eschtruth, three weeks shy of his 86th birthday, left for a better place on October 15. Walt lived a rich life that inspired those around him. He cared most about his family, friends, and community, which was reflected in his quiet strength, empathy, and patience. Walt was a savvy and successful small businessperson who helped build and grow a family firm that lasted 70 years. He was exceptionally active in countless community organizations, including his church, the Grand Ledge Opera House, Chamber of Commerce, and City Council. Walt also avidly pursued a wide range of lifelong hobbies: biking, tennis, hiking, travelling, and playing cards. And he was the family ping-pong champion into his 80s. Most importantly, he was a sterling role model due to his humility, optimism, and deeply rooted ethic of service.
Walt is loved by his sons Phil (Gayle) and Andy (Elana), grandchildren Ari, Rose, Mira, and Renee, his sister Paula, and his brother-in-law Michael Buschbacher, as well as nephews. He was the son of Frank and Miriam Eschtruth of Grand Ledge, the husband of Ann Dee (Muellerweiss) Eschtruth, the brother of Vivian, and the brother-in-law of John Finney.
A visitation will be held Friday, October 17, from 5-7 pm at Mills Funeral Home - Peters and Murray Chapel in Grand Ledge at 301 E. Jefferson Street.
The memorial service will be Saturday, October 18, at 11 am at the First United Methodist Church in Grand Ledge, luncheon to follow. Interment at Oakwood Cemetery, Grand Ledge.
Donations in Walt's memory may be made to: 1) the Grand Ledge Opera House at 121 S. Bridge St., Grand Ledge, MI 48837, gloperahouse.com; or 2) the Rails to Trails Conservancy, 2445 M Street, NW, Ste. 650, Washington, DC, 20037, railstotrails.org.
To share online condolences, please visit millsfuneral.com.