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Walter Cronin Obituary
Walter Louis Cronin, III, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2024, at the age of 80, after a brief bout with pancreatic cancer and a courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease. Walt, a proud son of Rhode Island, born and raised in East Greenwich, lived a remarkable life filled with adventure and laughter.
A daredevil to the end, Walt embraced lifes thrills. He loved sailing, flying, and driving his favorite cars. His zest for life was evident when he survived a crash in his ultralight plane in 1986, a testament to his resilience and courage.
Walt was not only an adventurer but also a gifted salesman. He could talk a blue streak and loved visiting with his clients throughout New England. Remarkably, he continued working until the time of his passing, leaving a lasting impact on those around him. His positive outlook and natural gift for humor enriched the lives of many.
He is survived by his loving wife, Donna (McManus), whom he made laugh every day, and was predeceased by his first wife, Nancy (McDonnell). Together with Nancy, he raised two children: daughter Cathleen (Jenkins) and son Daniel of Connecticut. Walt's legacy extends to his grand- children: Timothy, Joshua, and Rebecca (Barth), and his great-granddaughters, Amelia and Mora (Barth), all of Connecticut.
Walt was also predeceased by his parents Walter and Lucille (McPartland), and sister Sue, and leaves behind brothers Dennis and his wife Judy, Larry and his wife Cindy, Neil and his wife Maureen, Peter and his wife Karen, and many nieces and nephews.
Additionally, Walt leaves behind step-children Katie McManus of Quincy, MA, and Amy McManus & John Paterson of Northbrook, ILL, along with their children Graham and Avery.
The memory of Walt, smiling behind the wheel of his boat or beloved Tesla, will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace.
Services will be private, donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Save The Bay, or Rock Steady Boxing, where Walt picked up the gloves late in life.
-Save The Bay: 100 Save The Bay Drive Providence, RI 02905
-Rock Steady Boxing: 2240 South County Trail East Greenwich, RI, 02818.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Walter Cronin
4 Entries
Richie, R&N Motors
November 26, 2024
We are so sorry for your loss. Walt was a great guy we loved it when he visited our shop in Hamden Ct. He will be greatly missed he was one of a kind, they do not make them like him anymore. Again we are so very sorry to hear about your loss.
Steve Mattera
September 12, 2024
I just found out about Walter's passing. I knew Walter for many years, he was a great friend and business associate. I will miss his visits to our family dealership along with long conversations about life, family and business.
Anne , Mike and Justin Wilbur
August 31, 2024
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
Marion Cronin
August 2, 2024
Hello Cronin family. My sincere condolences on Walt´s passing. What a zest for life he had! His funny stories and dare devil adventures where such a joy to hear him recite! I remember the drives in all his fun cars ( or toys!). I will remember him fondly and with love. Again, condolences to all!
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