Walter William Katoll

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Walter William Katoll of Willow Springs; beloved husband of Maureen (née Heintz); loving father of Kaylie (William) Thornton and Rachel Katoll; dear brother of Ann (Jim) Kolar and Fran (Joe) Skala; cherished brother-in-law, uncle, nephew and friend to many.

Born March 14 to Walter D. Katoll and Ann (née Siblik) Katoll, he grew up in Brookfield, where he formed lifelong friendships through playing sports, starting his business and his magnetic personality. He had an easy presence that people naturally gravitated toward and by which they always felt welcomed.

Walt was the very best kind of man, sweet, kind, dependable, and simple in all the right ways. He didn't seek attention, yet made a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. If you ask those who loved him how they would describe him, you'll hear the same words repeated: "He was a great guy." He truly was one of the kindest, most genuine souls you could ever meet.

He was a devoted and selfless husband to his beloved wife, Maureen, sharing 29 years of marriage built on quiet strength, loyalty, and unconditional love. He always put his family first, expressing his love every day.

His greatest joy and proudest role was being a dad. A true and devoted "girl dad" to his daughters, Kaylie and Rachel, he loved his girls more than anything in the world. He was their protector, their biggest supporter, and their steady voice of reason. He showed up for them in every way and was endlessly proud of the women they became.

A lifelong sports fanatic, Walt could always be found rooting for the New York Jets in his #12 jersey, catching every Chicago White Sox game, and enjoying it all in the company of friends and family, with one of his favorite European beers in hand and plenty of food he had planned from the moment he woke up.

Walt lived simply, loved deeply, and gave without ever asking for anything in return. A gentle, grounded, and dedicated family man, he was a truly great guy. We are forever grateful to have been loved by him. His love, kindness, and presence will remain in our hearts always.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, February 28 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Katherine Legge Memorial Lodge, 5901 S County Line Rd, Hinsdale, IL 60521.

A blessing and time of remembrance will begin at 3:30 p.m., where family and friends are invited to share stories and reflections celebrating Walt's life.