Walter Stanley Niemaszyk

Walter "Wally" Stanley Niemaszyk, age 74, a longtime resident of Dracut, MA, passed away peacefully on June 27, 2025, surrounded by his family. Remembered for his kind spirit and ability to bring joy to any room, Walter leaves behind a life full of love, laughter, and unforgettable tales.

Walter was born in Lowell, MA to the late Walter and Stella (Jusczak) Niemaszyk, and grew up in Dracut, MA, where he graduated from Dracut High School, Class of 1968. Known to many as Wally, Waldo, or Papa to those closest to him, he poured his heart into building a successful framing company and liquor store-ventures that reflected both his unwavering dedication and his love for connecting with people.

In his free time, Walter could most often be found in one of two places: the woods of Vermont or the garden at home. A dedicated hunter, he cherished the stillness of crisp fall mornings in the deer blind and the familiar rhythm of weekends at camp-tending apple trees, walking the land, and ending each day surrounded by those he loved. Closer to home, Wally found joy in the soil, planting, nurturing, and sharing the bounty of a lovingly maintained garden.

Wally was rarely without the loyal companionship of his best friend and dog, Lego, who was never far from his side, whether riding shotgun on errands, wandering the yard, or just keeping him company on quiet days. The bond they shared brought Wally comfort, laughter, and unconditional love.

Perhaps one of Walter's greatest gifts was storytelling. He had a way of turning strangers into friends and quiet moments into laughter. With a flash of that trademark grin and a slight lean forward, Wally would draw you in-and just like that, you were hooked: laughing, nodding, completely absorbed. He made you feel like you'd known him forever, even if you'd just met. The stories he told-and the ones we'll tell about him-are the kind that stick with you. And that's just the way he'd want it.

Walter is survived by his son, Jason and Robin Niemaszyk of Dracut; his grandson, Joseph Niemaszyk and girlfriend Ashli McInnis of Dracut; his brother, John and Marianne Niemaszyk of Dracut; many nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends who will miss his presence dearly.

Walter was predeceased by his beloved longtime partner, Claire P. Taylor with whom he shared 20+ years together and his sister, Frances E. (Niemaszyk) Hatch.

A celebration of Walter's life will be held at a later date where stories will be shared, laughter encouraged, and his memory honored in the way he would have wanted-surrounded by the people who loved him.