Clifford "Bud" G. Walters

Traverse City- Clifford Gilbert Walters 97 of Traverse City, died Saturday December 23, 2023 at Medilodge of Traverse City. Born February 2. 1926, in Traverse City, he was the son of Nicholas and Helen (Grohowski) Walters. On July 4, 1950, at Saint Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City, He married the love of life Anita Mae Petroskey. He was a member and usher of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church for over 60 years. Clifford was a Marine veteran of World War II, Serving in the US Marines with the 1st. Marine Division on the U.S.S. Texas BB35 as a Quad 40mm gun loader. He received two battle stars while at Iwo Jima and Okinawa. The U.S.S. Texas BB35 was at general quarters for over 50 days straight at Okinawa due to the threat of kamikazes. This meant that the crew were always at their battle stations for seven weeks and ate only crackers and K-rations for meals and their only resting time was a quick shower and change of clothes every 3 days. Texas was never damaged as a result, and it is believed that this was the only U.S. ship that stayed at general quarters for that long at any point during World War II. Along with his brothers, Willard (Gil) and Allen (Al) he was a partner in Walters Fine Footwear and Shoe Repair. In 1980 Allen (Al) retired and the store was sold. Clifford was too young to retire so he went to work at Cone Drive Gear of Traverse City where he was a gear finisher till his retirement at 65, to enjoy his time with Anita. Sneaking as much hunting and fishing as he could with his son-in-law, and spending every summer with Anita and their two granddaughters Nicole and Kala going on adventures and making memories. He is Survived by his wife Anita of 73 blessed years. His three children David (Joann) Walters of Troy Michigan, Renee Walters Perry of Derby Kansas, Rochelle (Rick) Yurgalite of Livonia Michigan. Grandchildren Chris(Nemeskal), Nicole (Yurgalite), Melanie (Walters), Kala(Yurgalite) and Fiancé (Mike McIinnes) and Great Granddaughter Logan. As well as many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents Nicholas and Helen, sisters and brothers Viola, Willard, Allen, Mildred and Ethel. At this time there will be no memorial service at Anita’s request. There will be a memorial at a later time when both have passed on. Their ashes to be mixed together like their hearts have been for 73 years. At that time a Rosery and Memorial will be held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Traverse City, and burial at Oakwood Catholic Diocesan Cemetery with full Military Honors for Clifford (Bud) Walters. Anita will now enjoy being surrounded by her daughter Rochelle (Walters) Yurgalite and family in Livonia, MI. So please reach out to her for condolences through Rochelle. Phone calls and letters are appreciated. “Semper Fidelis”

Clifford "Bud" G. Walters

February 2, 1926 - December 23, 2023