WALTER PETTENGELL EULOGY
Dear family and friends,
We gather here today to remember and celebrate the life of a truly exceptional man, Walter Pettengell. My name is Apple Broady as his daughter in-law, the “in-law” was just a formality. He accepted me and loved me as his own. I have been bestowed the honor and profound task of sharing with you the tapestry of his life, with stories, achievements, hobbies, philosophies, and the profound impact he left on each of us. To share with you the essence of the man we all adored.
Walt was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather and a cherished friend to many and was a man of many facets. His capacity for love was boundless, a trait he carried as a badge of honor. At the age of 76, he has left us a legacy that will forever echo in the corridors of our memories and in the laughter-filled spaces he so often created. He was a testament to the fact that one's greatest accomplishments often lie in the hearts and lives they touch.
Walter was the very embodiment of love and humour, with a dash of procrastination that somehow only added to his charm. I can vouch that there was never a dull moment with Walt as many of you may know. Nineteen years ago, I first met him sitting outside with a beer in hand and a quirky joke on his lips, ready to make anyone's day brighter. His unwavering ability to bring joy and laughter into our lives was unparalleled. Our family canasta nights, remembered fondly, were among the best of times, filled with joy, spirited competition, and, without fail, Walter's roaring laughter and gentle teasing.
Dad’s achievements knew no bounds. Being a magnificent husband, father, and grandfather, however, was Dad’s crowning achievement. His unconditional love was the cornerstone of our family, nurturing us and teaching us that a family bonds and the essence of being kind, and compassionate individuals. Dad’s passion extended beyond just his family; he had a deep love for daytime soap operas, his favorite was Days of our Lives, and an undeniable passion for old muscle cars and trucks. Especially the Chevy Love. His dedication to car restoration showcased not only his technical skills but also his unwavering patience and attention to detail.
Despite his humorous exterior, Dad’s favourite saying, “Pull my finger,” exemplified his playful approach to life, that reminded us not to take life too seriously. But beneath this lightheartedness was a man who served his country with honor as a Private First Class Mechanic and an M-14 marksman in the US Army. This chapter of his life, surprising to many, shed light on the depth of Dad’s character - a man of resilience, strength, and dedication.
The impact Dad had on those around him is immeasurable. He was my rock, my guide, and my light. Dad taught me, and many of us, the importance of not always needing to be strong, but rather the virtue of being true to oneself and the power of vulnerability. His lessons, his love, and his legacy will continue to inspire me and many others to strive to be better versions of ourselves.
And now, as I stand in the wake of his absence, I miss his voice, his laughter and his comforting presence that made everything okay, no matter the circumstances. The loss of his contagious smile, his warm hugs, and his never-ending advice leaves a void that cannot be filled. Dad’s stories, his jokes, and, most importantly, his enormous, caring, loving heart will be dearly missed by all of us. We not only lost a splendid individual but also a beacon of love and joy.
In remembrance of Walter Pettengell, let us carry forward the love he has shown, the lessons he has taught, and the laughter he has shared. He may no longer be physically among us, but his spirit, his love, and his legacy will forever reside within his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and our hearts.
Thank you, Dad, for everything. We miss you deeply but are eternally grateful for the precious moments we shared. Your love, your laughter, and your light will forever illuminate the paths of those fortunate enough to have been part of your journey. Your memory will forever be a treasure, cherished and celebrated for generations to come.
Thank you, everyone, for being here today to honor the remarkable life of Walter Pettengell, a man who was, indeed, loving, funny, and yes, occasionally a procrastinator, but most of all, unforgettable.
May we all find comfort in each other and in the beautiful memories we shared with him. Our grief today is but a reflection of the love we felt for him—a love that will endure as we keep his memory alive in our hearts and our stories.
Rest in peace, Dad, Walter Pettengell. You were, and always will be, dearly loved.
