Walter Dennis Palechka

On the morning of Tuesday November 18th, 2025 Walter Dennis Palechka peacefully left this world at the Caroline’s Cottage Hospice Center.

Walter was born December 29th 1940 to a big Ukrainian family in Cleveland, OH. His parents, the late Walter and Anne (Husar) Palechka, and big sister Diane in Cleveland, OH. Walter had a happy childhood and could only be described as a rambunctious boy who was full of energy and jokes. Walter was lucky to grow up with his cousins and a flock of doting aunties to spoil him. After graduating from West Tech High School, Walter joined the Air Force ROTC while attending Kent State University. Walter continued on with the Air Force flying planes in the Vietnam War and leading classified missions as an officer. He retired from the Air Force with the rank of Major. Walter spent much of his career as a corporate accountant for Parker Hannifin. One day, a co-worker set him up on a blind date with another person from their company named Christine. Walter and Christine later married, had two children together, and moved to Michigan to raise their family. They were married for 30 years.

Walter loved playing golf with friends and watching sports. Hockey and football being favorites. His favorite card game was Hearts. He enjoyed going on day trips around Michigan and exploring the little towns along the coastline. He especially loved sailing on Lake Michigan with his friend Captain Lou. Walter always stayed connected to his family in Cleveland and always referred to Ohio as home.

After retiring, Walter moved to South Carolina to enjoy the warm coastal weather and be closer to the golf lifestyle. In retirement, Walter loved to travel, go on cruises, dine at restaurants, and finally had the chance to golf as much as he wanted (did we mention golf?)

Walter is predeceased by his beloved wife Christine J. Palechka and sister Diane C. Lada. Walter is survived by his son, Nicholas J. Palechka of Portage, MI; daughter, Gail D. Palechka of Plainfield, MA; his grandchildren Caroline Smith, Margaret Smith, and James Smith; his nieces Emily Lada, and Susan Viets; and his nephew James Lada.

Walter also leaves behind his companion Cynthia Strong and his friends at Sun City in Bluffton, SC.

Local services will be held at Sauls Funeral Home of Bluffton, SC at a future date.

The family will hold a Celebration of Life at Mallchok Funeral Home in Cleveland, OH, where Walter’s remains will be interred with his wife at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to make a donation in his name to Friends of Caroline Hospice, or to the cancer organization of your choice.