Walter Irvin Chronister, age 96, passed from his earthly life into the presence of his Heavenly Father on Friday, May 19, 2023, at his home in Collinsville, Oklahoma with family by his side. He was born on May 29, 1926, in Doniphan, Missouri to Verble Marie (Mathis) and George Washington Chronister. He graduated from Field Kindley High School in 1944. After graduation, he immediately enlisted in the United States Army and served under General George S Patton. Among many military honors, he received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his World War II service in Europe. After returning from service, he attended Coffeyville Community College and the University of Tulsa before beginning his 38-year employment with the Farmland Coop Refinery in Coffeyville as a machinist.
Walter met his future bride, Marjorie Jolene Gott, through mutual friends at the Pig Stand in Coffeyville. Walt and Marge married September 9, 1949, and celebrated their 70th anniversary in Collinsville with family and friends. They had 3 children, Walter Dale, Danny Clyde, and Kathy Jo.
During his younger years, Walt played basketball for the high school and college teams and in industrial league competitions. In addition, he played football and baseball for the high school team. Walt and Marge enjoyed spending time at Grand Lake fishing and boating. Walt spent over a year helping his father-in-law, “Pinky” Gott develop their property at Grand Lake. There are many examples of Walt providing help to family and friends over the years including caring for his niece when she suffered from a life-threatening disease.
Walt enjoyed coaching his sons’ baseball teams and playing golf with family and friends. After retirement, Walt and Marge would spend several weeks in Arizona every winter with his brother Floyd, sister-in-law Joan, and other friends playing golf. Walt and Marge were active bowlers for many years along with Walt’s mother, Verble. Grandpa Walt was always available to take care of his grandchildren whenever needed. He loved to tell stories, listen to funny jokes, and had a wonderful smile.
Walt was preceded in death by his parents, George and Verble Chronister; daughter, Kathy; sister, Laura Shoemaker, brothers; Floyd, Clyde, and George Chronister. He is survived by his wife of 73 years, Marjorie, their children; Walter and Danny; grandchildren, Aaron, Scott, Alexis, and Eric; and five great-grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2400 Woodland Ave, Coffeyville Kansas at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 31, the family will receive friends from Noon until service time also on Wednesday. Walt will be honored with Military Services provided by Veterans that are close to the family. The family request memorial contribution to be made payable to DAV (Disabled American Veterans) or WWII National Museum and those may be left in care of the chapel. To leave a message of condolence, share a memory or to view services streamed live, please visit www.fordwulfbrunschapel.com under his obituary page.
