Walter G. Klinefelter
10/28/1938 - 12/11/2025
Walter G. Klinefelter (Wally) of Kerrville passed away on December 11, 2025 after a heroic battle with AML, MDS and Alzheimer’s.
Wally was born on October 28, 1938, to Walter Klinefelter and Bertha Bisjak in St. Paul, Minnesota. He married Katherine Miller in 1957 before being deployed with the United States Navy. Upon his honorable discharge following his final assignment aboard the USS Mount McKinley (AGC7) he returned to his growing family in 1961.
He curated a career as a lifelong salesman beginning with McDonald’s in the early years then Foodmaker Industries which reunited him with San Diego where he was once stationed. After Foodmaker he spent several years restoring old cars with then wife June and son Timothy in the southern California area before moving to the foothills in Northern California.
This led to the highlight of his professional life as the proud owner of what began as the Diamond K and grew into Diggins Restaurant. He served up a healthy dose of companionship, laughter & joy to the local community who stopped by for his ever present smile & happy demeanor. He served a mean cup of coffee and the best breakfast in town.
Wally had a lifelong love for the Arts, Community, Old cars, Music, and Travel. He was an especially snazzy dancer, prancing around at every possible opportunity.
In his later years, Walter retired to Kerrville, TX where he spent his final precious years with his lovely companion, Jan Stutts, enjoying long drives, great food, virtual travel and lots of laughter.
He is preceded in death by his parents, the mother of his six children, Katherine “Kathy”, sister Bert Ann “Snooky” and husband Fred Payne, brothers James and Charles, and son Paul Walter.
He is survived by his youngest brother William “Uncle Bill” and Kathy, children Timothy of San Diego, Gregory, Kathryn, Annie & Cristian of Minnesota, Grandchildren Holly, Tony (Holly), Alexander (Melissa), Samantha (Stanley), Matthew (Mesa), Kalina (Ruby) and many great grandchildren.
Walt also leaves behind a multitude of cherished friendships in the Center Point/Rio Robles communities in Texas, as well as many in Placerville, CA and especially his dearest friend, Margot Stengel of Monterey.
A local celebration of life to be scheduled in for a later date.
Obituary Provided By:
www.grimesfuneralchapels.com
info@grimesfuneralchapels.com
830-257-4544
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