James H. Walters

James H. Walters, 89, of Gulfport, Florida, died on September 28, 2013 in the care of Suncoast Hospice after a courageous struggle with Alzheimer's disease. He was preceded in death in March 2013 by his wife of 65 years, Marilyn. Survivors include his son, David Walters; daughter, Lynda Friedman and son-in-law Paul Friedman of Gulfport, FL; three grandchildren, Ryan Walters, Eliza Walters with her son Jacoby of Superior, WI and Sean Walters of Hibbing, MN; brother, Jack Walters; and nieces Susan and Jackie. Mr. Walters is also mourned by sister-in-law Carole Levens and her companion, Duncan McEachern of Gulfport, FL, nephew Michael Levens, his wife Denise and children Colette and Elyse of Lake Orion, Michigan. After high school graduation in Hibbing, MN, Mr. Walters joined the Army Air Corps as a navigator. He loved to tell about his travels during World War II. In 1947, he married Marilyn Olsson. She encouraged him to use the GI bill to acquire his college degree. They had many adventures as young married students living in the Quonset huts of student housing at St. Cloud State. With a teaching degree and one daughter, the Walters moved to Brooten, MN. Mr. Walters was very proud of his students and his winning basketball teams in Brooten. His wife loved to tell the story of son David's birth needing to wait for the conclusion of a basketball game. After coaching and teaching stints in Menominee, MI and Rothschild, WI, the Walters returned to family in Duluth, MN in 1963. Mr. Walters taught math for many years at Woodland Junior High School. He also coached winning swim and golf teams. The Walters retired to Gulfport, FL in the early 1990's where they enjoyed golf, bocci and their beautiful water view. The cribbage club at Town Shores was an important responsibility for Mr. Walters. In August of 2010, the Walters were among the first residents at Brentwood Senior Living Community. They appreciated the kind care of the Brentwood staff. Mr. Walters enjoyed the daily activities especially those designed for people in wheelchairs. Parties and ice cream socials ranked among his favorite things to do. One especially memorable celebration was the party given for their 65th wedding anniversary on September 20, 2012. Mr. Walters entered the care of Suncoast Hospice on September 24, 2013. His family is grateful for the peace and dignity of his care during his dying. Graveside services will be held at Bay Pines National Cemetery in January 2014. The family requests memorials to Suncoast Hospice (thehospice.org) or the Alzheimer's Association (alz.org) in lieu of flowers. David C. Gross Funeral Homes, Central Avenue Chapel in St. Petersburg is serving the family. Service Information