Walter “Wally” Klaus

Walter “Wally” Klaus, of Fond du Lac, WI passed away peacefully on July 1st surrounded by the love of his family, he was 84.

Born on March 26, 1941, in Minneapolis, MN, to Walter G. Klaus and Valeria (Schoofs) Klaus. Wally grew up in Clintonville, WI and later attended the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he earned his degree and formed lifelong friendships and memories.

Wally met the love of his life, Rita at fraternity/sorority “beer supper” pregame in 1961, a chance encounter that led to a lifetime of love and partnership. After brief stints in Milwaukee and Madison, they made their home in Fond du Lac. They raised their three sons there and built a life rooted in family, friendship, and 33 years as a Marketing Manager at Giddings and Lewis.

Wally was a man of many passions. He took pride in preparing delicious Sunday brunches, loved golfing, boating, gardening, snorkeling, and settling in with a good book. A loyal fan of the Green Bay Packers and Wisconsin Badgers, Wally rarely missed a game. He found deep joy in travel, especially to the Caribbean, Florida, and Europe.

For 47 years, Wally and Rita made their home on Sandy Beach Road, where they enjoyed countless sunsets and gatherings with family and friends. Nothing brought Wally more happiness than time spent with his family, especially watching his three grandchildren grow up and thrive.

Wally is survived by his wife, Rita; his children: Brock (Christi), Jason (Christine), and Curtis (Deb); his beloved sister Sylvia and 3 grandchildren, Carson, Cambryn, and Quinn.

A private celebration of life will be held with family. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to raise a toast to Wally, perhaps with a good Bloody Mary and remember the joy he brought to every gathering.