December 15, 1931 - August 23, 2024
Loving husband, father, grandfather, and great- grandfather. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 63 years, Zanda (Watson) Golbeck, with whom he shared a life full of adventure and deep love.
He is survived by his cherished daughters, Sharlyne and Kathleen, 8 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and his devoted sister, Irene (Charlie Smith) of Prince George. He was also predeceased by his brother Vern (Marg Long) and his parents, parents Wilhelm and Clara (Reglin).
Born in Minitonas, Manitoba, Walter moved to Prince George with his family in the early 1940s. From a young age, he showed a strong work ethic, co-founding a successful newspaper route with his brother. He continued this entrepreneurial streak throughout his career, founding trucking, house moving, and taxi companies, but his true passion lay in supporting his community. Walter loved Prince George deeply and was committed to helping small businesses flourish.
He had a lifelong love of the outdoors, spending many happy days camping and traveling across Canada with Zanda. Together, they found joy in discovering new places and learning about their country's history. Walter also found a special place in the Toastmasters Club in the 1970s, where he enjoyed the art of debate and sharpening his communication skills. His deep sense of civic duty led him to be actively involved in politics, always advocating for responsible fiscal spending and the importance of voting.
Walter's warmth, integrity, and sharp wit touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He was a man of quiet strength, never a burden, and lived a long and fulfilling life on his own terms. Though his family and friends feel the deep sadness of his passing, they find comfort knowing he is now free from the struggles of age. His humor, love, and spirit will be dearly missed but cherished in the hearts of those who loved him for many years to come.
Memorial service for both Walter and Zanda Golbeck 09-26-2024 from 14:00 to 16:45 at First Baptist 485 gillette st, PG refreshments provided.
Published in the Prince George Citizen on Sept. 5, 2024.
