New Bedford – Walter Thorpe, Sr. passed away on Friday February 12, 2016 at St. Luke’s Hospital.
Walter was born on November 8, 1949 in Fitzgerald, Georgia, to the late Frank and Louise (Armstrong) Thorpe. He has lived in New Bedford, MA. since 1991. He served our country in the United States Army and was a veteran in the Vietnam War. Following his discharge from the military, he worked in the construction industry for many years until his retirement.
He leaves behind his family which includes his wife of 26 years, Leslie (McNickles) Thorpe of New Bedford, MA; children: Walter Thorpe, Jr., twins Ernest Thorpe and Keith Thorpe, all of New Bedford, Waltis Gadsden of Georgia, June Thorpe of Boston, Scottland Thorpe of Florida, Tova Thorpe Andrews of Boston and Steven Montgomery of Florida; lovingly known as “Papa Walt” by his stepchildren, Curtis McNickles, Lenora McNickles, Dujuane McNickles, Laquita McNickles; as well as several grandchildren, 1 great grandchild and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Thorpe was predeceased by 2 siblings: Mary Palmer and Frankie Robertson.
A special thanks to Douglas Quarles, Alison Spinola, and James Quarles for their kindness and support they extended to Walter.
Visitation will be in the funeral home on Thursday, February 18 from 11:00 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. Burial will follow in Massachusetts National Cemetery at 1:30 P.M. Arrangements placed in the care of Perry Funeral Home, 111 Dartmouth St. in New Bedford.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family and will be greatly appreciated.