Walter M. McLachlan

Walter M. McLachlan, 90, of Camillus, passed away Sunday at St. Joseph's Hospital. He was born in Ballston Spa and raised in Gloversville where he met his future bride, the former Kathryn Batty. While at Gloversville High, he was a three-sport athlete, she his biggest cheerleader. He went on to serve in the Air Force during the Korean War. Upon graduation from Rochester Institute of Technology, he and Kathryn relocated to Syracuse where Walter embarked on a 35-year career with General Electric.

Walter was predeceased by his wife of 57 years; and brothers, John and Andrew.

Surviving are his daughter, Karen (Brian) Kretschmann of Camillus, son, John (Kathleen) McLachlan of Fairport; grandchildren, Mark Kretschmann of Fairport, Matt (Kathryn) Kretschmann of Corning and Meghan and John McLachlan, both of Fairport; and sister-in-law, Carol McLachlan of Crossville, Tennessee.

In retirement, Walter passed on his love for the game of golf to oldest grandson, Mark, with whom he enjoyed many memorable rounds. As a boy, he also played the trumpet, an interest in music, along with sports and a love for dogs, shared with grandson Matt. Although no longer able to watch his younger grandchildren, Meghan and John, take to the ice or field of play, he'll continue to be their biggest fan and with them in spirit every step of the way.

Walt so looked forward to his frequent visits to Vermont Green Mountain Coffee in Skaneateles - Kay DiNardo and the Green Mountain Girls provided this "regular" immeasurable joy over the last 29 years.

Walt enjoyed monthly lunches at The Retreat with long-time friends and co-workers from GE whom he also bowled and golfed with through the years.

A heartfelt thank you to lifelong friends and neighbors, Bill (the late Janis) Nortz, Mike and Jean Celeste, and the entire Sheedy family.

The family would also like to thank the staff of St. Joe's Dialysis in Camillus for the compassionate care provided over the last year and a half.

Relatives and friends may call Wednesday, April 13 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Buranich Funeral Home, 5431 W. Genesee St., Camillus. Services will follow at 6 p.m. at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, take a loved one out for a ride, a cup of coffee or an ice cream in memory of Walter.