Walter B. Oke, 72 of Westville, Ind., passed away Thursday, June 29, 2012 at his home after a lengthy illness.

He was supported through this difficult time by his daughter and primary care giver, Jane Pawlik; and close friend and secondary care giver, Tiny Ryan.

Walter was born on May 17, 1940 in Waukeegan, Ill., to Nicholas Vernon Oke and Neomia (Terrien) Oke at St. Theresa’s Hospital. He is preceded in death by both of his parents, as well as his step-father, Robert Hamilton; and youngest sibling, sister Gail Dawn Horton, both of Chesterton, Ind.

Walter was a 1958 graduate of Chesterton High School and enjoyed friendship with many of his class mates for years after his graduation. After serving six years in the Army National Guard, Walter was employed by NIPSCO, retiring in 1997 after 37 years of service with the company. He was a member of the USW Local 12775. Walter also worked at the Village Tavern in Porter part-time and the Meijer store in Michigan City in produce after his retirement.

He is survived by his step-daughter, Jane M. Pawlik of Union Mills, Ind.; step sons James Pawlik of Bass Lake, Ind., and Jeffery (Ellen) Pawlik of Bradenton, Fla.; granddaughter Portia Christine Pawlik and great-grandson Aiden Pawlik of Bass Lake, Ind. He is also survived by his eldest sister, Neomia (Samuel) Lewis of San Diego, Calif.; sister, Midge (James) Fornshell of Porter, Ind.; and brother, Jerome (Beverly) Oke of Portage, Ind.

Wally will be missed by many friends who knew him and who are welcome to celebrate his life at a Memorial Service at the VFW in Porter, Ind., on Sunday, July 8, 2012 at 11:30 a.m., where Wally will be remembered with a service and food shared with family and friends.

Arrangements are by Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home, 517 Broadway, Chesterton, IN.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.EE-FH.com

Posted 7/5/2012