A memorial service with military honors will be 2:00 p.m. Monday, May 1, 2017 at Waco Memorial Park.
Walter was born in McGregor, Texas to Carl and Otillia Zacharias on December 27, 1922. He married Frances Burton in April of 1946. They were married for over fifty years and raised two sons. Walter was a veteran of World War II serving in the Army's Air Force and was awarded the Bronze Star, Distinguished Unit Medal, and the Victory Medal. While serving our nation, he was stationed in the South Pacific on the island of Saipan attached to a B-29 Bomber Group. After being discharged, he attended 4-C College. Walter was a man of many talents that led him to a fulfilled life working as an accountant for several local businesses including: Higginbotham-Pearlstone, Waco Hardware, Morris Jewelers, Smith Furniture, and Payless Cashways. He enjoyed working on his cattle ranch and spending his time building, altering, and inventing different farm implements. Walter married Geneva Kirkland Zacharias on July 17th, 2001 in Mount Calm, Texas. They shared fifteen wonderful years together while being surrounded by family on their ranch and watching their great-grandchildren grow up. Throughout his life Walter was actively involved in the agricultural community, the Baylor Senior Choir, and First Baptist Church of Mount Calm.
Walter is preceded in death by Frances Burton Zacharias, wife, Carl and Otillia Zacharias, parents, and his brothers and sisters.
Walter is survived by his wife: Geneva K. Zacharias, his children: Edward Zacharias and wife Arlene, Walter Zacharias Jr. and wife Genie, and step-son Rob Kirkland and wife Yvette. He is also survived by his granddaughters: Cathryne Nivin and husband Ernest, Janis Royal and husband Erik, and Walter Zacharias III. Walter's pride and joy were his four great-grandchildren: Deslyn, Eaen, Madeline, and Olivia.
Honorary Pallbearers will be Ernest Nivin, Erik Royal, Eaen Royal, and Jennifer Reesing.
Please sign the online guestbook at www.bellmeadfuneralhome.com