I had to lay my Father to rest today, most difficult thing I have ever had to do. Walter Warren Wise was my Father, friend, drill instructor, coach, and my idol. He taught me how to play basketball, hand to hand combat, and most importantly how to be a real man. A bit abrasive, most people could not handle my Father. For those who could, saw that He was the most loving person who would do all that He could for anyone.
Walter received His GED a year early so He could enlist into the United States Marine Corps. He turned 18 on December 30th, 1968. In February 1969 He stepped foot on Vietnamese soil. After serving one tour of duty, He spent 9 months stationed in Japan. Shortly after returning home He began working at Armstrong World Industries, where He would retire from 35 years later.
My Father coached softball and basketball teams, and was my basketball coach through elementary school. I was at camps, both basketball and football every summer, it was never told it was too expensive even if it meant working overtime. Our Phamily took two or three vacations every year, He made sure the time and money was there.
I will forever miss Walter, He took a piece of my heart with Him. He will finally rest peacefully, the pain and demons are gone.
