Colonel William Walters

Bill "Bucks" Walters, 63, passed away on Sunday, November 14, surrounded by his wife Diane and their three children. Those who knew Bill describe him as "bigger than life." His strong convictions, compassion, tenacity, will, and indefatigable determination made him an inspiring father, friend and leader. He entered Air Force pilot training after graduating from West Virginia University in 1969. Bill flew C-7s in Vietnam [458^th TAS] and commanded two F-4 squadrons-the 90^th TFS Pair-O-Dice and the 3^rd TFS Peugeots, his leadership influencing a generation of fighter pilots. In 1992 he became the USAF Attaché in Italy. He retired as a Colonel from Davis- Monthan Air Base in Arizona and began a second career in the defense industry, moving to Orlando in 2003. He was most recently employed by Lockheed Martin. His job afforded him opportunities to remain connected to his beloved band of brothers--fighter pilots from all over the world. Bill was preceded in death by his parents Wilbur and Nora Walters of Washington, PA. He is survived by Diane, his wife of 41 years; and their children, daughter Sondra and husband Greg May of McLean, Virginia, daughter Lauren and husband Nathan Potter of Savannah, Georgia, and son Greg and wife Lisa Walters of Orlando; and his grandchildren, Zoe, Addy and Grayson. He is also survived by his brother Dave Walters and wife Barb of Ada, Oklahoma. True to his nature, he was a warrior till the end. Though cancer claimed his life, it never defeated his spirit. His courage will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. A memorial service was held at the First United Methodist Church of Winter Park on Wednesday, Nov. 17, at 4 p.m. Bill was buried at Arlington National Cemetery.