Janet Walter

Janet Walter of La Grange, KY, left on her next great adventure on Monday, Nov. 18, surrounded by the love of her family. She was a wonderful force of nature, and a smart, strong, dedicated woman who reached out to all in need.
Janet was born in Irving, NY, to Carl B. and Geneva (Howe) Peterson on Jan. 10, 1934. After graduating as valedictorian of Collingdale High School in Pennsylvania, Janet earned a scholarship to Temple University, where she majored in psychology. She later earned a Masters degree in sociology at East Tennessee State University and did graduate work at Duke University. Janet and her husband of 56 years, Charles, made a loving home and raised their children in Johnson City, TN, before retiring to La Grange, KY. Janet was a homemaker, and she worked in sociology research and accounting. She was a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church (Johnson City, TN) and St. John Lutheran Church (Louisville, KY). Janet always thought of others first, and she was dedicated to many causes, including alleviating hunger, social justice, and muscular dystrophy research. She delighted in adventures in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Great Pyrenees dogs, and playing cards and games; but, most of all, she loved her family.
Janet is survived by her husband, Charles Walter; sister, Maren Frank of Johnson City, TN; children, Bernadette (Tracy) Eells of Crestwood, KY, and Wesley (Beth) Walter of Granville, OH; grandchildren, Elias, Aidan, and Lillian Eells, and Marissa and Ben Walter; and many beloved nephews and nieces. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Geneva Eddleman, Patricia Kupfer, Carol Sheldon, and Faith Waldrop; brother, Carl Peterson; and son, Larry Walter.
Funeral services were held at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 24, at St. John Lutheran Church, 901 Breckenridge Lane, Louisville, KY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ELCA World Hunger (elca.org/hunger), the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Dare to Care, or the charity of one's choice.