Walter F. Mahoney

Walter F. Mahoney, 74, a longtime resident of Western Springs, passed away suddenly on November 20. Beloved husband of the late Magda Mahoney; loving father of Sara (Alexander) Bordens and Kathryn Mahoney; doting grandfather of Maxwell and Molly Bordens; dear brother of Ann Mahoney Altherr (Victor) and Elliott A. Mahoney Jr., son of the late Elizabeth Righter Mahoney and Elliott Algernon Mahoney.

Walter will be remembered for his devotion to his family, love of literature and history, way of finding humor in everything and, especially, his uncanny ability to connect with everyone. After growing up in Richmond, Va, he attended the University of Georgia, graduating with a degree in Journalism. He developed a passion for Georgia football and was committed to watching the Dawgs' games.

Walter was the Senior Vice President of Tribune Media Services, where he worked for 38 years, and helped develop a newswire service connecting newspapers across the world. His work led him all over the globe, always returning with souvenirs for his family or sending post cards documenting his travels.

Walter devoted his retirement to helping others, including becoming a docent at the Illinois Holocaust Museum and tutoring high school students in a GED program. He shared so much joy in their successes. His recent summers were spent playing in the Western Springs Village Club golf league, catching up with neighbors on his daily walks, and playing with his grandchildren at the pool and park.

Above all, Walter was a family man whose greatest pride was his wife, daughters, and later grandchildren, and the life he built with them. His daughters will miss the steady love he gave so freely. Those who knew him well will miss his robust and creative stories.

Visitation Saturday, December 6, from 10 am until time of Mass, 11 am at St. John of the Cross Church, 5005 Wolf Road in Western Springs. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations given to Open Books or the Alzheimer's Research Foundation in honor of Magda Mahoney are appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home, Countryside at 708-352-6500.