Walter C. Force

Walter "Walt" Force, a cherished husband, father, and world's greatest Papa, passed away peacefully of natural causes on December 12, 2024, in his home in Battle Creek, Michigan. Born on June 12, 1946, to John Lee and Meredith G. (Duff) Force, Walt's gentle and faith-filled presence was a blessing to all who knew him.
Walt grew up in Battle Creek, where he attended Battle Creek Central High School and graduated with the class of 1964. His commitment to his community was evident from a young age and continued throughout his life. Walt served his country in the U.S. Navy and received an honorable discharge. He met his future wife at the age of 7 years-old who became the love of his life, Martha (Lower) Force, and they married on August 5, 1967, forging a union of love and dedication that would last for over five decades.
Walt's professional life was marked by his meticulous work as a machinist at Union Pump Company, from which he retired after many years of dedicated service. His work not only demonstrated his skill and attention to detail but also his deep sense of responsibility and care for the well-being of others.
His spirit of service extended beyond his professional life. Walt was a man of great faith, and his life reflected his priorities: God, family, and helping anyone in need. He was known for his gentle nature, funny anecdotes, and unwavering faith. These attributes were the cornerstone of his character and were felt by everyone he encountered. He was a member of New Hope Apostolic Church in Battle Creek.
An incredibly skilled craftsman, Walt had a passion for carpentry and construction. He took great joy in creating and fixing things, often lending his talents to friends, family, and neighbors. His love for travel took him to over forty-seven states, where he cherished the opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories with his loved ones.
Family was the center of Walt's world. He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter with his wife, Martha, and his children, Nada Ingram (Chuck Saunders) of Battle Creek and Jason (Andrea) Force of Battle Creek. His role as Papa was one he held with the highest honor, bringing joy and wisdom to his grandchildren, Jessica (Clint) Schutter, Jacob (Caela) Ingram, Zachary (Ciera) Ingram, and Jennifer Force, as well as his adored great-grandchildren, Owen, Jasper, Lindynn, Ramsey, Larrick, Brady, Isabella, Aurora, Jonas, Le'Asha, La'Riah, La'Vaeh, La'Niah, La'Kiah, La'Ziah, and Jeffery Jr. "JJ". Walt will also be missed by his surviving siblings, Tom (Carol) Force, Susan Thompson and Nona Force (Jen Prough). Walt also leaves to cherish his memory countless other family members and friends.
Walt was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, John "Jack" Force, Larry Force, Nancy Furman, Linda Force, James Lee Force, and Daniel Force; his son-in-law, Douglas Ingram; and his great-granddaughter, Eden Bliss Ingram. His memory will be forever cherished by his family, who will continue to honor his legacy by living out the values he instilled in them.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at New Hope Apostolic Church located at 6900 E Drive in Battle Creek with Pastor Scarlette Fleury officiating. A time of visitation will be held on Wednesday beginning at 4:00 p.m. Full Military Honors will be rendered at Fort Custer National Cemetery on Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 11:30 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made in Walt's memory to New Hope Apostolic Church Building Fund.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home, Niles. www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Walt's life was a testament to the power of kindness, humor, and faith. His absence will be deeply felt by all who were blessed to know him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. As we bid farewell to Walt Force, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of moments that will be treasured forever.