Walter Komarnizki, Sr.

Walter Komarnizki Sr., 68, of Sault Ste. Marie passed away on August 3, 2018, at War Memorial Hospital. Walter was born in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan to Frances (nee Trudeau) and Nestor Komarnizki on May 15, 1950. He was a 1968 graduate of Sault Area High School. Walter played hockey throughout his high-school years, advancing to a semi-pro team in Chicago after graduation. He was a member of the United States Army from 1970-1973, serving two tours in Vietnam. Walter married Sandra Mayer on July 6, 1968, and together, they made their home in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Walter enjoyed fishing, cooking, woodworking, and backyard BBQ's while spending time with his family. He especially loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was also an avid fan of listening to music especially Johnny Cash, Irish Rovers, the Golden Oldies, and Country and Western. Walter was very proud of his service in the United States Military and his Native American Ancestry. Walter is preceded in death by his Wife Sandy (January 28, 2018), his infant daughter Corel, his loving parents, Frances and Nestor, and his brother’s Reuben and David Walter is survived by his children: Dee (Michael) Berry of Dowagiac, MI, Carrie (Luis) Perez of Barbeau, MI, Walter (Stephanie) Komarnizki II of Sault Ste. Marie, Jason (Julie) Komarnizki of Sault Ste. Marie, Christine (Brandon) Miller of Cedar Springs, MI, Linda Komarnizki of Sault Ste. Marie; his siblings: Margaret (James) Ploss of New York, Olga Burgess of Sault Ste. Marie, Linda (Edward) Kubont of Sault Ste. Marie; Julia Bickham of Iowa, Karen Komarnizki of Sault Ste. Marie, and Angie Komarnizki of Alabama. Walter had nineteen grandchildren: Ashley, Kaylene, Jake, Chance, Taylor, Alma, Mercedes, Kendall, Courtney, Kevin, Gage, Drake, Brighton, Evan, Darrah, River, Korah, Kaden, Reece, and four great-grandchildren: Emery, Edward, Abel, and Addilyn. Walter was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many. He went to great lengths to make sure his family was taken care of. At times working two-three jobs to do so. During his younger years, Walter would often rise several hours before work to freeze over the backyard making an ice-rink for his children. Throughout the years, he, along with his wife Sandy, opened their doors to the many family and friends in need of help. Even during his ailing health, Walter continued to try and take care of his family. He was loved immensely and will be greatly missed and forever in our hearts and memories. Visitation will be at the Niigaanaagiizhik Ceremonial Building from 5-10 p.m. on Wednesday, August 8, 2018. A funeral mass will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 11:00 am on Thursday, August 9th. Christian burial with Military honors will follow at Oaklawn Chapel Gardens. Pallbearers will be Gage Komarnizki, Kendall Miller-Mather, Chance Hallas, Jake Komarnizki, Drake Perez, and River Perez. In lieu of flowers, donations to the EUP Hospice House would be greatly appreciated. The family of Walter wishes to extend our thanks to Sault Tribal Health Center, Veteran’s Affairs and a special thanks to the many Doctors, Nurses, and various care providers who so diligently provided care to our father over the past several years. Online condolences may be left at www.clarkbaileynewhouse.com.

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Walter Komarnizki, Sr.

May 15, 1950 - August 3, 2018