Walter C. Hendricks Jr.

SALEM - Walter C. Hendricks Jr., 71, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, at Aultman Hospital in Canton, surrounded by the love of his family.

Walter was born on December 28, 1953, in Salem, Ohio, the son of the late Walter C. Hendricks Sr. and Barbara (Kerr) Hendricks.

A lifelong resident of Salem, Walt was a gradaute of Salem High School, Class of 1972. Shortly after, he answered the call of duty by enlisting in the United States Navy. He served his country aboard the USS Independence, stationed in the Mediterranean during Vietnam. In 1976, he was honorably discharged and received the National Defense Service Medal.

Walt's post-military life was marked by a continued commitment to service. He was a familiar face at the Salem AMVETS Post 45 and the VFW Auxiliary. His career at Eljer Plumbing, where he worked as a tub enameler, spanned many years until the company's closure. Walt then embraced a new path, obtaining his CDL, and working as truck driver until his retirement. In retirement, Walt discovered a new way to serve his fellow veterans. As a van driver for the Columbiana County Veterans Service Commissions, he found joy and satisfaction in the camaraderie shared with his passengers. Those drives to appointments were more than just journeys, they were opportunities for connection and storytelling.

Walt's spare time was filled with simple pleasures. He was a fixture at local festivals and fairs, enjoyed bowling, golfing, and fishing throughout the years, and he was always up for a hearty breakfast at a local diner.

Walt especially loved visiting Geneva-on-the-Lake with his family, often reminiscing and sharing with them memories of his childhood summers spent there with his grandparents. No visit was complete without a round of miniature golf, a meal at Eddie's Grill, indulging in a Madsen cream stick donut, and a stroll through the beach and Geneva Township Park.

Walt leaves to carry on his memory, his children, Shannon (Henry) Spell and Bryan Hendricks, both of Salem; his grandchildren, who affectionatley called him "Pop Pop," Jacob (Britney) Hendricks of Alliance and Maggie Spell of Salem; great-grandchildren, Serenity and Cordelia; sister, Patricia (Chip) Myers of Salem; nephews, Kenny Schwer and Eric Myers; and niece, Jamie Garrod.

Per Walt's wishes, there will be no calling hours or service.

Memorial tributes may take the form of contributions in Walt's name to Salem AMVETS, 750 S. Broadway Ave., Salem, OH 44460.

Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To view Walter's obituary, send condolences, or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.