Klappich, Walter Samuel

Walter Samuel Klappich, a World War II veteran and long time Acton, Mass. resident, died at 86 years of age in Blacksburg, Va. on December 14, 2007 with his daughter, Lynn at his side. He finally surrendered to the lung disease that he had been battling for the past five years.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 39 years, Lois Ruth Klappich. He is survived by two children, Lynn Klappich and her husband, Jim Overton, and Dwight Klappich and his wife, Jeanne; and by his four grandchildren, Nathan, Braden, Jennifer and Christopher.

Walt was born on January 1, 1921, in Toledo, Ohio. He witnessed many historic events. Prohibition, the Great Depression, and several major wars, the space race and explosions in technology from old-time radio shows to cable TV and slide rulers to the laptop computers his son and daughter seemed to carry everywhere.

As an Army Captain in the 10th Engineer Combat Battalion of the 3rd Infantry Division, Walt saw action in many major World War II campaigns, including the landing on Anzio and the liberation of the concentration camp in Dachau. He was awarded a Bronze Star Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster.

Walt attended the University of Michigan, receiving both bachelors and masters degrees in engineering. He was a life long Wolverine fan, which he found most enjoyable the many times Michigan played in the Rose Bowl on his January 1st birthday. He worked through college as a big-band drummer, which fashioned his life along passion for the big-band jazz. He was also a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.

He met his future bride while attending the University, marrying Lois Ruth Musgrave on June 14, 1947. They shared a rare bond, with Walt often expressing his love through humor, writing silly and romantic poetry for their anniversaries, and sharing their mutual love by making hundreds of homemade Christmas cards each year.

After Lois’ death, Walt’s friend and neighbor, Vinnie, became his true guardian angel. Vinnie’s kindness and attentiveness enabled Walt to remain in his home until this past June, and it was also Vinnie’s love and concern that eased the way when it was time for Walt to leave his home of 40 years, although the parting broke both their hearts.

In his beloved memory may the love of God shine through all who knew Walt.

Funeral services will be held in Acton, Mass. on Friday, December 21, 2007. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Good Samaritan Hospice, 3825-A Electric Road, S.W., Roanoke, Va. 24301, would help the family extend their appreciation. Arrangements by McCoy Funeral Home, Blacksburg, Va.