Thomas S. Walter

Thomas "Tom" S. Walter, 89, passed away on August 31, 2026 at the Reading Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was the devoted husband of his wife, Margaret "Peggy" (Hackett) Walter. They celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary in August.

Born in Flushing, NY, he was the son of the late LeRoy L. and Helen W. (Fenner) Walter. Tom went on to receive his B.S. in Business from Lehigh University, his MBA from NYU Stern, and his Ph.D. from Nova University. Tom had a long and distinguished career in education, teaching at Albright College and DeSales University. Prior to his career in education, Tom held a variety of senior financial roles at CBS, NBC, and Bally's. He was also deeply committed to his community, dedicating many years of service to the Wyomissing School Board, serving as its Treasurer.

Tom proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1959 to 1961, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Junior Grade (LTJG) before being honorably discharged. He served aboard the USS Greenwich Bay (AVP-41), flagship of the U.S. Navy's Middle East Force, sailing the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, and Indian Ocean, and later completed his service with Assault Craft Unit 2 (ACU-2) at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek in Norfolk, Virginia. He was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for his service. Tom spoke often and with great pride about his time in the Navy, an experience that shaped him for the rest of his life. He especially cherished the quiet times at sea, later saying that looking out over the ocean brought him some of his most peaceful moments.

Outside of the classroom, Tom was an active and faithful member of West Lawn United Methodist Church. He was a familiar face around his neighborhood, always up for a walk and rarely one to pass a neighbor without stopping to chat. A lifelong sports fan, his loyalty to the New York Mets never wavered, through good seasons and hard ones alike. Those who knew him remember a man generous with his time and conversation.

Nothing brought Tom more joy than time spent with his grandchildren. He talked about them frequently, following their lives closely and lighting up at any chance to share their latest milestones or accomplishments. He was endlessly proud of each of them and of the people they've become.

Tom is survived by his wife, Margaret "Peggy" (Hackett) Walter; his sons, Marc (Lisa Insinger) and Ryan (Jennifer Woods); and five grandchildren, Kasey, Carolyn, Grant, Jordan, and McKenzie. He is also survived by his brother John F. Walter (Barbara M. Walter) who resides in North Carolina.

The funeral service for Tom will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 11 a.m. at Kuhn Funeral Home, 739 Penn Ave, West Reading, PA 19611. Family and friends may gather from 10 a.m. until the beginning of the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom's honor to West Lawn UMC at 15 Woodside Ave, Reading, PA 19609. 

Edward J. Kuhn is honored to serve Tom's family. Online condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.