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Obituary: Walter Edward Shefka

Fri, Jan 6th 2017 11:35 am

Walter Edward (Wally) Shefka passed away peacefully in his home in the loving care of his entire family after a brief illness on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017.

After meeting on a blind date, Wally and his bride Laurie shared one of those remarkable love stories you only hear about in movies.

Wally had a great love of the outdoors and a deep, deep faith and devotion to our Lord. Additionally, Wally took great pride in service to his country during the Korean War. Wally was stationed in Alaska and was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant in the U.S. Army in 1953 and was extremely honored that his grandson, Matthew Masse, followed in his footsteps. Wally continued his service as a reservist afterwards.

He loved to visit the family cabin "The Toss Up" in Cayuga. Wally was a true woodsman who loved deer hunting, fishing, hiking through the woods, cross country skiing, and 4-wheeling. Wally was a true Cayuga Woodchopper. Grandpa was an expert water witch and amazed his grandkids with his skill and accuracy, and the most progressive 87 year old you've ever met. He lovingly cared for his bride during her 15-year struggle with Alzheimer's and made a promise to bring his bride's garden to its former glory. He fulfilled his promise this past fall and continued to honor her by making sure to always have a bouquet of flowers on the kitchen table.

Wally was born in Saxon, Wisconsin, and grew up in the U.P. where he was proud of his upbringing through the depression and his Polish heritage. After high school, he moved to Appleton for work where he met the love of his life and celebrated 60 years of marriage.

All because two people fell in love. ... Wally is survived by his loving children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: Kathy and Mark Masse and children David (Lauren) (Anna, Jonathan, Lily, Sarah), Elizabeth (Shawn) (Jeremiah, Emily, Zechariah, Esther), Matthew (Cat), Adam (Mary), and Rebecca; Susan and Mark Shefka Peeters and children Christopher (Kristi) (Kenzie May, Katelyn Rae), Joseph, and Timothy; Debbie and Mark Guckenberger and children Christie (Corey)(Noah, Kayde, Ella), Becca (Buck) (Hunter), Zach (Katie), and Aaron; Tom and Barb Shefka and children Sarah (Matt)(Maya, Delaney, Harper), Andy (Lindsay)(Bradyn, Jordyn, Wesley), Lisa (JD)(Ellianna), and Jake (Francisco); Cindy and Wayne Bergholtz and children Stephanie (Alfredo) and Betsy (Troy); and Jim and Traci Shefka and children Rose and Isaac. The family will also soon be welcoming two more great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his younger sisters, Jeanette and Loretta. Walter also left behind a dear family friend and caregiver, Socorro, and neighbors Dave and Kathy.

We know that he is so pleased to be reunited with his mother and father, Anna and Anton Shefka; brothers and sisters, Eddie, Tony, Evelyn, Mary and Eleanor.

As a true man of faith, Wally loved each member of his family unconditionally.

Dad had fond memories of his time working at the Gateway Lodge in Land-O-Lakes as a youth. His 2016 Christmas gift was one final trip down memory lane to the Gateway for a long weekend with his children. We plan on fulfilling that gift as we travel there as a family with dad in our hearts in February.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Walter was held in Appleton, Wisconsin, on Saturday, Jan. 7, 2016.

We love you Dad/Daddy/Grandpa/Big Papa. God bless you!

In lieu of flowers, your donations will be directed to the Father Solanus Casey garden at St. Joseph Parish, 404 W. Lawrence St. in Appleton. The family would like to thank the pastor and kind friends of St. Joseph parish, all of whom became valued members of the extended family.

Walter Edward (Wally) Shefka 

Walter Edward (Wally) Shefka

Walter Edward (Wally) Shefka 

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