Walter E. Thorson, 93, passed away December 24, 2011 at The Syverson Lutheran Home, Eau Claire, Wi. with his daughter Ann by his side.

Funeral Services will be at 11 am on Thursday December 29, 2011 at St. John's Lutheran Church, 1804 Highland Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701. Pastors Christine Emerson and Sandee Kosmo will officiate. Visitation will be at the church Thursday morning from 9:30 am until the time of services. Committal services will be in the Riverside Lutheran Cemetery in Mondovi on Thursday afternoon at 2 pm with military honors being rendered by the American Legion Post #53.

He was born March 10, 1918 in the town of Canton, Buffalo Co. to Thomas and Christine (Erickson) Thorson.

Walter was the youngest of eleven children and grew up in a very close and loving family.  He had such happy memories of his childhood and he remained close to his family all of his life.

He served in the army during World War Two and later was in the Air Force Reserves.  During the war he was stationed in both the Philippines and New Guinea.

He worked at Uniroyal for 34 years, retiring in 1980.

After retirement he spent time golfing in the summer and ice fishing in the winter with his many good friends. He also enjoyed boating and water skiing and family picnics.

His granddaughter Julie was one of his many golfing buddies.

Walter is survived by his daughter Ann Zich of Eau Claire. Granddaughter Julie (Vincent) Haas of Brooklyn Park, MN., sister-in-law Janet Thorson of  Mondovi and many nieces, nephews and friends.

Walter was preceded in death by his son Thomas Thorson and son-in-law Richard Zich.

He was also preceded in death by his five brothers, John, Andy, Carl, Duane and Marvin. Five sisters, Elma Fimreite, Sylvia Urness, Ethel Urness, Agnes Franzwa and Fern Thorson.

His faith was strong and he had been a member of St. John's Lutheran Church for many years.

Walter will be missed.  He will be remembered for his sense of humor and love of life. Friends may offer condolences online at www.fullerspeckienhulke.com.

Fuller Speckien Hulke Funeral Home, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.