Derwood F. Walter, Sr.

February 17, 1946-September 5, 2026

Derwood F. Walter, Sr., 80, of Altoona, passed away Saturday morning at his residence. He was born in Blue Knob, the son of the late Martin and Mary (Eichelberger) Walter.

Derwood is survived by a son, Derwood F. Walter, Jr. of Texas and two daughters: Mary Kay Sessa (Joe) of Claysburg and Laurel Rodriguez of Altoona; grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his two sisters: Delores Renney and Ruby Keller both of Altoona.

He was preceded in death by his longtime partner, Shirley Payne and several siblings.

Derwood was a veteran in the United States Army and served during the Vietnam War.

He retired from Conrail.

Derwood was a member of 18th Street Community Church and the Newburg Firehall.

He enjoyed exercising and dancing, but he especially loved being with his family.

Friends will be received from 10 am-noon, Saturday, September 12, 2026 at The Stevens Mortuary, Inc., 1421 8th Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602. A funeral service will immediately follow at noon in the Stevens Memorial Chapel with Pastor Nate Germany.

Interment will be held at Calvary Cemetery.

The family kindly requests that contributions be made in Derwood’s memory to: 18th Street Community Church, 1411 18th St., Altoona, PA 16601.

Condolences may be made at www.stevensfamilyfuneralhomes.com or Stevens Family Funeral Homes Facebook.