Virginia Jean (Pline) Walter

Virginia Jean Walter, age 90, passed away peacefully with family at her side on May 1, 2026.

Jean was born on February 16, 1936, the daughter of Gustav and Anna Pline.

She married Donald Walter in 1955. Jean worked in the Governor’s office for G. Mennen Williams until the birth of her third child. Don and Jean raised 5 children. After raising their family, Jean decided to hone her skills and return to the work force. She retired from her accounting position at General Motors in 1987.

Don, her husband of 59 years, preceded her in death in 2014. Don and Jean enjoyed many years of travel and joy filled times with friends and family.

Jean was a lifelong parishioner of St. Joseph Catholic Parish and loved singing in the choir for over 60 years.

She modeled a faith-filled life. Her smile could light up a room, and she welcomed everyone with an open heart. Her kindness and compassion comforted many people throughout her life.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her great joy.

Jean was truly loved and will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her 5 children: Randy (Pat) Walter, Gayle (Ted) Spitzley, Dawn (Marti) Thelen, Guy (Tina) Walter, and Jon Walter; 16 grandchildren; and 33 great-grandchildren.

Jean is survived by her dear sister-in-law, Aggie Pline and many loving nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her 9 siblings: Vivian, Doris, Francis, Marion, Gus, Wayne, Jim, Leon, and Judy.

The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate caregivers at Portland Assisted Living and Memory Care and U of M – Sparrow Hospice for their amazing care and guidance. A special thanks to Vanessa, RN, Susan, MSW, Rachael, Music Therapist, and Kristina, Hospice CNA.

For those desiring, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Parish, Pewamo in memory of Jean.

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 2-7 p.m. with the rosary being prayed at 1:30 p.m. at the St. Mary’s Funeral Chapel, 210 N. Westphalia Street, Westphalia.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. Darrel Kempf at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, May 14, 2026 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Pewamo. Rite of Committal will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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