Walter L. Getka, 86, of Burlington, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family Sunday, March 10, 2024.
Walter was born in Burlington on April 12, 1937, to Elmer and Vesta (nee Minnis) Getka. His early life was spent in Slades Corners. He graduated from Salem Central High School. On Aug. 3, 1958 in Rushville, Illinois, he was united in marriage to Leola Curtis. Following marriage, they made Burlington their home and were lifetime residents. He served in the US Army from December 1961 until December 1963.
Walter worked as the Service Manager for Otter Sales and Service for over 40 years and was a member of Burlington United Methodist Church. In his retirement, he enjoyed restoring antique tractors and farming. He also loved singing in the church choir, spending time with family and attending his grandchildren’s school and sporting events.
Walter is survived by his wife, Leola; children, Jane Kissee of Stockdale, Texas, Judith (Kenneth II) Kerkhoff of Burlington and Jay (Suzanne) Getka of Kenosha; grandchildren, Jennifer and Jeffrey Kissee, Ryan and Emma Getka, Paige and Kenneth (Trey) Kerkhoff III, and Leanna, Matthew and Scott Kissee; sisters, Mary McLafferty and Barbara Bloss; and sisters-in-law, Jean Getka and Elizabeth Gernay.
He was preceded in death by his parents; in-laws, Thomas Oliver and Juanita Curtis; brother Vincent Getka; brothers and sister-in-law, Timothy McLafferty, Ronald Gernay, Daniel and Olive McNeff; and son-in-law CW4 (R) Ronald Kissee.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery in Slades Corners or Burlington United Methodist Church.
Services for Walter will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home. Relatives and friends may visit with the family from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will take place at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery following the service.
Well-wishers may visit www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com.
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