Walter Schnelle

Walter Schnelle, 96, died Monday, May 14, 2007 at the Washington County Hospital. He was born in Limon, CO on March 2, 1911 to Ira and Josephine (Cookman) Schnelle. Walter was a graduate of Oklahoma State University with a BS Degree in agricultural science. He joined the Navy in 1944 and served in WWII. Walt was united in marriage to Frances Bryson on July 19, 1932 in Perry Oklahoma. Walter and Frances moved to Washington in 1974. Walter worked as a county extension agent and as a farmer. He received a soil conservation award (man of the year) in 1959. He served on the Extension board, was active in the American Legion, Masons, and Lions Club. Walter was also a church elder and a 4-H Leader for 10 years. Walter was preceded in death by his parents and two sisters. He is survived by his wife of 74 years, Frances; a daughter, Patricia Snyder and husband James, Overland Park, KS; 3 grandchildren, Richard Snyder and wife Dawn, Korea, David Snyder and wife Lora, Memphis, TN, Deborah Balentine and husband Zachary, Wichita; and 9 great grandchildren The funeral service was held at 11:00, Thursday, May 17, 2007 at the First Presbyterian Church, Washington. Pastor Wendell Sack officiated. Burial was in the Washington City Cemetery. Casket bearers were, Paul Smith, Greg Stewart, David Lowe, Gary Sinn, Dale Coonrod, and Bob King. A memorial was established to be designated later by the family. Ward Funeral Home handled the arrangements. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Walter Schnelle, please visit our flower store.