R. David Walters Jr.

Robert David Walters passed away in his sleep at Medilodge of Traverse City, Mich., on Monday, June 9, 2025. He was 81 years old. Born on May 19, 1944, in Salem, Ohio, David was the cherished eldest son of Robert and Virginia Walters. His childhood in Austintown, Ohio, was rich with joy and mischief, surrounded by the love of his parents, siblings, cousins, grandparents, aunts, and uncles. He and his siblings spent many summers at Rose Lake and the annual extended family reunions in East Palestine. He carried those early memories with him throughout his life, valuing family above all else. In his younger years, he traveled across Europe—embarking on a transatlantic singles cruise, exploring cities with his brother Tom, and famously showing up unannounced at the doorstep of distant relatives in a small German village. They welcomed him warmly, and the evening they shared became a treasured memory. On September 19, 1979, he married Susan Martin. Just before a long-anticipated trip to Europe, they learned they were expecting their first child, Emily. They embraced this new chapter with enthusiasm, and in the years that followed, welcomed two more children, Claire and Christian. David valued his role as a father and found great meaning in raising his family. He dedicated his professional life to social work, supporting those in need with compassion and persistence. At the Portage County MRDD, he helped adults with disabilities find meaningful employment and navigate daily life. Earlier in his career, he worked with foster families and played a key role in opening the Daybreak Youth Crisis Center— a homeless shelter that has offered safety and support to more than 8,000 young people over the years. His work left a meaningful impact on the lives of many. David was a lifelong musician with a booming, beautiful voice. He performed in community theater and at the annual Boars Head Festival, with Susan sewing his costumes. He served as an organist and choir director at several churches throughout Ohio and Pennsylvania, including St. James Episcopal in Boardman, Advent Lutheran in Solon, and St. John’s Episcopal in Sharon. Music was a constant presence in his life, and he loved gathering family around the piano at the end of every celebration to sing showtunes. David and Susan hosted many holidays and celebrations over the years and welcomed friends and family alike with warmth, laughter, and hospitality, creating a hub for deep connection and love where a newcomer could feel like part of the family. David’s favorite place in the world was Rockport, Mass., where he made many happy memories as a young man. He was thrilled to share Rockport with his wife and children, and they returned year after year to enjoy the rocky beaches, quaint downtown, and picturesque lighthouses. David especially reveled in visiting the local Episcopal church, where the parishioners never failed to compliment his singing. Though he struggled with his mental health for many years, David’s love for his family remained a central part of his life. He found special joy in his grandchildren and was proud of the family he and Susan built together. David will be greatly missed by his children, Emily Walters (Jason Brian) of Asheville, N.C.; Claire Williams (Jason) of Williamsburg, Mich.; and Christian Walters (Meagan) of Traverse City, Mich.; and his beloved grandchildren, Matilda, Eleanor, Lula, and Lane. He is also survived by his dear siblings, Tom (Maggie) Walters of Valparaiso, Ind.; and Carol (Jay) Ernst of Burlingame, Calif.; as well as many treasured brothers-, sisters-, and cousins-in-law, including Lani, Lex, and Alyssa Calder; Ed Istnick; Jeff and Bobbie Roshitsh; Katy Ernst; Tesia Poponyak; Mandy Barrett; Josh Walters; Ann and Bob Smith; Cherie Brainard; Wayne Schaeffer; and many more. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Susan, on March 26, 2025; his parents, Robert and Virginia; his sister-in-law, Jane Schaeffer; and his cousin, Alexander Calder. A celebration of both David and Susan’s lives will be held July 6 in Williamsburg, Mich. Arrangements are being handled by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremations Services. In memory of David, his family asks all who knew and loved him to belt out a favorite song, host a party, spend time with your loved ones, enjoy a delicious French pastry, lift up a glass of Carlo Rossi, and live life to the fullest. David’s life became limited due to untreated mental illness, so please honor his memory by making the most of this one life and, if you are struggling, by getting support. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in David’s and Susan’s names may be made to Mill Creek Park in Youngstown, Ohio, to help fund the future Children’s Garden. Mill Creek was the site of many family outings over the years and held a special place in their hearts. Donations can be made at https://childrensgarden.fund/donate-now. The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the compassionate staff at Medilodge, who became like a second family to David. Please feel free to visit David and Susan’s tribute page at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com for service details and to share your thoughts and memories.

R. David Walters Jr.

May 19, 1944 - June 9, 2025