Walter Bielanski

Walter Bielanski May 15, 1922 to August 6, 2014 58-year Lakeland resident, passed away August 6th from respiratory failure. Born in Detroit, Michigan and raised on farm near Vasser, Michigan. Later at Michigan State University he met Phyllis Olin, ""the best part of his life"". During WWII served in the Army Air Corps as a B24 bombardier, based in England. Returned in 1944, married Phyllis and began a 39 year career with Auto Owners Insurance in Detroit. He transferred to Lakeland in 1956 and continued on into retirement in 1985. Over the years he was an active community volunteer in scouting, church and at the public library. Walt indulged in tree farming at his childhood Vassar farm, tinkering with various shop projects, world trekking with Phyllis, being an avid reader and engaging storyteller. He was preceded in death by wife Phyllis. Survived by children Gordon (CeCe) Catheys Valley, CA. Allan (Debby) Lakeland FL, Eileen McCarron (Bill) Denver, CO, and Greg (Vicki) Monument CO, seven grand children and eight great-grandchildren. The family mourns the loss a loving and supporting father and the world lost a gentle soul. Visitations at Heath Funeral Chapel, Monday 8/11, 5-7 PM. Memorial Service at Presbyterian Church in the Highlands, Wednesday 8/27, 6 PM. Memorial donations may be made to Canine Companions for Independence, Orlando Chapter. Service: 08/27/2014 Presbyterian Chrurch in the Highlands 1010 Lake Miriam Drive, Lakeland, FL 33813 Heath Funeral Chapel Visitation: 08/11/2014 Heath Funeral Chapel