Walter Ervin Ditlefsen Jr's Obituary
In Loving Memory
A Celebration of the Life of Walter Ervin Ditlefsen Jr.
January 9th, 1951 - June 1st, 2025
On June 1st, 2025, Walter Ervin Ditlefsen Jr. of Puyallup, Washington, embarked on his next great adventure, leaving behind a legacy of love, determination, and joy that touched everyone who knew him.
Walter was Born on January 9th, 1951, in Tacoma, Washington, he would ultimately attend Washington State University, graduating with Bachelor of Science Degrees in Computer Science and Biochemistry. Walter obtained a position with the Boeing Co. as an Information Technology Engineer, CAE Mech/Struct Engineering Systems. His passion to help others enabled him to become a Boeing Counsel Representative and would later join the Executive Board as a Northwest Regional Vice President for the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA). After Retirement, Walters dedication to help others continued by volunteering his services to the Employee Retirement System (ERS). During this time, he married his forever love, high school sweetheart, Julie Ditlefsen, who he met in 1971. Living life to the fullest, they would embark on many travel adventures, loving and enjoying every precious moment.
Walter lived a life filled with passion, creativity, and resilience. His love for travel, sports, music, and outdoor activities was infectious, inspiring those around him to embrace life's possibilities with enthusiasm. A man of determination, creativity, hard work, intelligence, and resilience, Walter approached every endeavor with unwavering dedication. His innovative spirit and zest for life left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Above all, Walter was a loving father, husband, and friend. His warmth and kindness enriched the lives of his family and friends, creating cherished memories that will be treasured forever.
He is survived by his devoted spouse, Julie Ditlefsen, his children Timothy, Kathy, Step-Children Bill Smith, Susan Porte (Dominic), April Wise (Thomas), his sister, Barbara Willenbring (Steve), his 9 Grandchildren, 2 Great Grandchildren, and his Fur Grandbabies.
He is reunited in spirit with his parents, Walter Ervin Ditlefsen Sr. and Victoria Ditlefsen, and his beloved sister Anne Smallwood.
While we will mis Walter’s joyful presence, we celebrate the beautiful life he lived and the lasting impact he had on all of us. His spirit of adventure and love will continue to inspire us every day.
Donations may be made to:
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center Ways to Give | American Lung Association
Celebration of Life: Saturday, June 28,2025
Graveside Committal: 1:30 - PM PT
Mountain View Memorial Park
Memorial/Reception: 2:00 - 5:00 PM PT
Mountain View Oak Room
4100 Steilacoom Blvd SW
Lakewood WA 98499 Visit: Mountain View Funeral Home & Cemetery in Tacoma, WA for more information.
What’s your fondest memory of Walter?
What’s a lesson you learned from Walter?
Share a story where Walter's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Walter you’ll never forget.
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