Moreau, NY- Walter J. Meissner, 92, passed away June 5, 2012, at his home with his two beloved daughters at his side.
Walter was born May 29, 1920, the son of the late John and Catherine Evans Meissner.
He was predeceased by his loving wife of 46 years, Georgette Mary Feltman Meissner.
He was proud and spoke often of his service in World War II. As Captain in the 74th Army Air Forces Base Unit he piloted 1500 hours in the C-46 and C-47 during World War II on missions over China, Burma, India from 1942-1945. He received the Presidential Unit Citation, the Victory Medal, the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal and the Purple Heart.
Walter was a Construction Engineer, building the Harbour Club Garden Apartments as well as single family homes on Long Island and Fire Island. He was also responsible for building the Nissequogue Firehouse on Long Island and served as Fire Chief for two years at its inception. He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter, fisherman, hiker, and naturalist. The chipmunks that ate peanuts from his pocket will surely miss him.
Walt found a lot of joy in music, although when he was a young boy taking violin lessons, he would weaken the strings by partially cutting them with a razor blade at the beginning of his lesson so he could go out and play baseball, but the love of music was always there. As he grew older he earned money for his family by playing the accordion and piano in dance bands, he finally settled on the organ as his instrument of choice. Over the years he played both professionally and privately for his family and friends, bringing much joy to them.
Walt is survived by daughters, Diane (John) Jacobsen and Dale (Gary) Guyette; granddaughters, Johanna and Cortney Jacobsen, Kendall (Tom) Scott and Lacey (Zac) Cote; and great-grandchild, Brogan Scott.
Although we will miss him very much, the memories of him will live on forever.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Greater Glens Falls Senior Center, 380 Glen St., Glens Falls, NY 12801.
Online condolences can be made at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com.
