Walter Kaeding, aged 92, of Walpole, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully at his home Sunday evening, February 11, 2024. He was with his loving wife Rita, to whom he had been married for nearly 70 years. Walter was preceded in death by his son-in-law Harald Hoyesen and survived by his daughter Linda Hoyesen of Fairfax, Virginia, his son and daughter-in-law Andrew and Diane Kaeding of Lynn, Massachusetts, and his daughter and son-in-law Lisa and Scott Carroll of Cresskill, NJ. He had six devoted grandsons Sean Kaeding and his wife Kristen, Myles Kaeding and his wife Casey, Bryan Kaeding, Ian Kaeding and his wife Kim, Matthew Carroll and Evan Carroll. He is also survived by his great-granddaughter Geneva Kaeding and great-grandson Corbin Kaeding. He will be sorely missed by countless extended family members, family friends and new friends from his retirement community at New Pond Village in Walpole, Massachusetts.
Walter was born and raised in Dorchester, Massachusetts. After entering the service in 1952, he was honorably discharged in 1954 as a corporal in the United States Army during the Korean conflict. In October of 1954 he married the love of his life, Rita Zanga, and together they raised a family in Dedham, Massachusetts. Walter's last place of employment was at the Norfolk County House of Correction, in Dedham, Massachusetts, during which time he pursued an associates degree in Criminal Justice from Northeastern University. He retired from Norfolk County in 1997, having achieved the rank of captain.
Always one to give back and help others, Walter was an active member of the American Legion Post 18, was elected Post commander in 1971, and achieved an honorary life membership with the American Legion, as acknowledged by Massachusetts Congressman Paul McMurtry, in 2013.
Walter's life focus was always his wife Rita and his family. He was always available, believed in assisting those in need, and was a true patriot for his entire life. Walter was a man of integrity, grit, determination and great tenderness. His gifts and tremendous warmth will always remain with us. He was the kind of man, husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather and friend who made you want to do and be your best.
Visiting hours will be held at the George F. Doherty & Sons Wilson-Cannon Funeral Home, 456 High St., Dedham on Sunday, Feb. 18 from 2-6pm. His Funeral Mass will be held in St. Anne’s Church, 90 W. Milton St., Readville on Monday, Feb. 19 at 11am. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Interment in Brookdale Cemetery, Dedham.