Walter “Wally” Bartsch
September 26, 1951 – November 29, 2024
On Friday, November 29, 2024, as the setting sun painted the sky, Walter Bartsch passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, after a short but courageous battle with cancer.
Walter is survived by his daughters, Rhea, Danielle, and Emma (Mike); grandsons, Kolton and Hazen; siblings, Herbert, Klaus, Erich, Alfred, and Ilona; ex-wife, Dolly (Denis), who remained a cherished part of his life; and many friends, aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, Helmut and Else Bartsch, and brother-in-law Robert Maynard.
Walter’s story began on September 26, 1951, in Bachnang, West Germany. In 1953, his family made the journey to Canada, settling in Winnipeg, Manitoba. As the eldest of six siblings, Walter shared a lively, adventure-filled childhood with his brothers Herbert, Klaus, Erich, and Alfred, and his sister Ilona. Together, they created memories that shaped a lifetime.
Walter was, above all, a family man. He was the proud and devoted father of three daughters—Rhea, Danielle, and Emma—and the ultimate “girl dad.” Whether it was coaching baseball games, going for pedicures, or simply being there when they needed him, Walter’s love for his girls was boundless. They were his pride and joy, and he never missed a chance to tell them how much they meant to him.
His role as a grandpa brought even more joy into his life. Walter’s grandsons, Kolton and Hazen, held a special place in his heart. Kolton was his constant companion, always ready for a truck ride, a trip to the skating rink, or an adventure to the dump. Hazen brought joy with his snuggles and his instant connection to his grandpa. For Walter, being their grandpa was one of life’s greatest blessings.
Walter had a way of making everyone feel welcome. Friends quickly became family, and his kindness extended to everyone he met. After a 30-year career at Scotiabank and later Portage Credit Union, he found purpose in retirement driving others through Service for Seniors. What began as rides to appointments often blossomed into friendships because Walter couldn’t help but care deeply about the people around him.
He was known for his green thumb and his abundant garden, which overflowed with tomatoes he lovingly tended and gave away freely. Every summer, his backyard transformed into a sea of green vines and red fruit, a reflection of his dedication and generosity. Walter also loved experimenting in the kitchen, trying new recipes, and sharing his culinary creations with family and friends.
Some of Walter’s happiest memories were made at the family cottage on Brereton Lake in the Whiteshell. With three cabins and three families (Bartsches, Deusters, and Thiessens) side by side, gatherings often grew into lively affairs filled with laughter, storytelling, and the warm embrace of extended family. Walter also had a love for the open road, preferring road trips over flights and cherishing the journey as much as the destination.
Faith was a cornerstone of Walter’s life, grounding him and giving him peace. He was an active member of Portage Alliance Church and shared his faith through quiet acts of kindness and generosity.
Walter’s life reflected love, generosity, and faith. He taught us to appreciate life’s simple joys—a ripe tomato, a family gathering, or a long drive with someone you love. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and devotion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A celebration of Walter’s life will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Walter’s memory may be made to CancerCare Manitoba 1160-675 McDermot Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9 or the Heart and Stroke Foundation 1379 Kenaston Boulevard Winnipeg, MB R3P 2T5.
A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.