Walter B. Donaldson, Sr.
March 9, 1935 - February 26, 2024
Walter B. Donaldson Sr., age 88, of Millsboro, Delaware, passed away peacefully, while surrounded by his family, on Monday, February 26, 2024.
Born in Wilmington, Delaware on March 9, 1935, he was the son of the late James S. and Ruth G. (Weldin) Donaldson. He was raised in Marshalltown, Delaware before entering the U.S. Army, where he served domestically and in Germany. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (“IBEW”) Local Union 313. He was a member of the IBEW for seventy-one (71) years.
Walter was married to the love of his life, Mary Agnes (Mahoney) Donaldson, and had seven children. He and his family resided in Newark until his retirement at age 58, when they moved to Millsboro and enjoyed retirement. Walter loved to build furniture and woodworking projects for his family. He also enjoyed gardening in his yard, fishing and crabbing in the Indian River Bay, and running his pontoon boat.
In addition to his parents, Walter was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Agnes Donaldson; his daughter, Mary Jo Donaldson; his brother, James S. Donaldson Jr.; and his son-in-law, Jacques L. Vial.
Walter is survived by his beloved children, Walter (Sharon), MaryLouise Vial, Michael (Kim), Luke (Karen), Neal (Lisa) and Joel; his sister, Alice Holiday of Pike Creek, DE; 16 grandchildren, Walter Donaldson III (Leah), Rachel Donaldson (Matthew),Matthew Vial (Theresa), Nicholas Vial, Annamae Vial-Beamer (Jack), Marybeth Vial, Kelly Krajewski (Patrick), Michael Donaldson II (Nicole), Kelsey Donaldson, Brice Donaldson, Molly Donaldson, Sarah Donaldson, Natalie Donaldson, Brennan Donaldson, Lauren Donaldson, Reagan Donaldson; and 11 great grandchildren, all of whom he adored.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 2 pm until 4 pm on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place, Newark, DE. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 am on Monday, March 4, 2024, at Holy Family R.C. Church, 15 Gender Road, Newark, DE. Interment will follow in All Saints Cemetery, 6001 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Walter’s memory to the Little Sisters of the Poor, Jeanne Jugan Residence, 185 Salem Church Road, Newark, DE 19713-2942 or online by clicking here.
Diane McClosky
My Uncle Walt will be missed by so many. He was one of the good men who adored his wife with all of his heart and wasn’t afraid to show it. He raised six wonderful children who have continued his legacy of family first. He always had a smile on his face and a story to tell and was always interested in what you had to say. I loved visiting their home as a child where we often played in the pool in the backyard. It warms my heart to know that he is now reunited with his beloved wife. Rest in peace.
Karen Ash
MaryLou Our thoughts & prayers are with you and your family at this very difficult time! If you need anything at all please give me a shout! I am so sorry for your loss! We miss you!!! The Ash Family
Danny Savina
We wish to extend our thoughts and prayers to the Donaldson family. Walt was one of the best if not the best electrician that ever worked out of local 313. Walt was one of the journeyman that taught me the trade and was a great mentor and friend, he gave me skills and life lessons that I carried throughout my carrier. Rest in peace Walt and our condolences to your family. Danny & Annmarie Savina