Walter Phillip Feiger, 88, resident of Traverse City's Old Mission Peninsula passed away Monday, July 8, 2024 surrounded by his loving family. Walt had a zest for life, expressing much gratitude for the good life God had given him.
He was born on September 10, 1935 to Walter and Lillian (Weber) Feiger in Flint. As a young boy, he loved spending summers with family on Spider Lake, enjoying time with his many cousins, and helping on his grandparents' farms. In 1954 he officially began his training with the US Navy and faithfully served in the reserves until he was honorably discharged in 1962.
In 1956, Walt married the love of his life, Susan Trager. He was a devoted husband and loving father to their five children. He worked faithfully to provide for his family as a painting contractor. In later years, he pursued his love for vintage automobilia and assisted Susan with operating The Old Barn Antiques. He loved sharing Walts Garage and talking to customers; many became friends.
Walt had a great sense of humor and was quick with a smile and kind word. He often fondly shared stories of his life adventures. An avid hunter and fisherman, he loved the outdoors and shared that love with his boys. When it came to Euchre, Walt was quite the card shark. He loved his home, land and the life he and Susan built for themselves on the peninsula.
Walt is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Susan; sons Mark Feiger, Alan (Karen) Feiger, Tony (Kaylene) Feiger; daughters Dawn (Larry) Smith and Annette Arnold; nephews Kris and Sean Mercer; 10 grandchildren: Allison Laural, Kristina Taylor, Candace Jeffrey, Nathan Smith; Andrew, Joshua, Karena, and John Mark Feiger, Steve and Corin McDonald; 12 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Walt was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Ruth (Feiger) and brother-in-law George Mercer, niece Bethany (Mercer) Hyder, daughter-in-law, Mark's late wife, Carrie VanHerwig, and grandchildren Melissa Jo and Daniel Smith.
He showered his family & friends with abundant love and encouragement. Our kind hearted, generous, fair and much beloved man will be greatly missed.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 26 from 5 - 7pm at Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, July 27 at 11am at St. Joseph Catholic Church on Old Mission with visitation beginning at 10 am. Interment will follow at the St. Joseph cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic Church or Alzheimer's Association in honor of his mother and sister.
Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .