If you've ever detected a waft of Avon Mesmerize without feeling a wave of comfort wash over you, it's because you never met Walter Wasicki.
The second born to Eleanor and Eugene Wasicki Sr. on February 22, 1947, Walter spent his boisterous youth near Cove Island in Stamford, Connecticut with his two siblings, Eugene Jr. (Myrna) and Cynthia (Brian). Many childhood days were spent swimming in the Long Island Sound, diving for clams, crabbing, playing stickball in the streets, and participating in church on Sundays. After attending Stamford High School, Walter followed in his father’s footsteps and enlisted in the United States Navy at the tender age of 18. This experience ignited a lifelong passion for adventure and living life to the fullest.
As a young man, Walter developed a deep desire to commune with nature, spending much of his time camping, fishing, climbing trees, backpacking in the mountains of New England, visiting all the National Parks, and every state in America except Alaska. Walter even lived in Hawaii roasting coffee in the early 90’s. This love of the outdoors led him to pursue a certification in arboriculture and eventually started his own business. You could pick up a leaf and present it to Walter on a nature walk, and he would not only tell you what sort of tree it originated from, but he would enthusiastically recite its Latin name as well.
What he couldn't experience first-hand, he learned about from the multitude of maps, atlases, and history books that occupied his leisure time. Reading quenched much of Mr. Wasicki's unrelenting thirst for knowledge and he would share his love of geography and sociology by imparting literature or amusing factoids upon all who were near. With an uncanny knack for nearly everything he attempted, including chess, horseshoes, darts, cooking (not baking), and enhancing his lexicon, it was easy to call him a natural.
Walter's altruistic disposition radiated outward like a warm ray of sunshine on a dreary winter day. He would gladly give the shirt off his back to any in need and could find something in common with everyone. A good Samaritan, friend, advisor, and confidante to many, he would lend a helping hand or offer a comforting word whenever possible.
More than anything in this world, Walter cherished his family, the Lord, and his sobriety. His faith was tangible through the cross that so often rested around his neck, and his kin were soothed by his scripture recitations in relation to any juncture in their lives. His mantra was, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 413 NKJV.
Walter Wasicki and his second wife, Susan Dittmar Tymon (9/13/1956–5/7/2023), were brought much joy and happiness with the births of their three daughters Denise, Lisa (Adam), Christine Mayhew (4/21/1979–6/2/2014), and their half-sister Erin Tymon. Alongside his girls he treasured time with his seven grandchildren; Robert, Danielle, and Ashlyn (Denise), Lauren & Alexander (Lisa), and Zachary & Erika (Christine); plus five nephews (that were more like sons to him) Brian, Gary, Gene, Jesse, Andrew, and one beloved niece Sarah. He was also fortunate enough to meet his Great-Granddaughter, Graciella.
Walter passed away unexpectedly on July 24, 2023. He was a one-of-a-kind soul who will be fondly remembered for all the love he shared with his family and friends. He wholeheartedly cared about each of them.