Walter J. Rose, Sr.

Walter J. Rose, Sr., age 90, of Pomfret, Connecticut and most recently of Panama City, Florida, passed away on March 9, 2026. Born on October 15, 1935, in Oneco, Connecticut, Walt lived a long and hardworking life defined by quiet strength, humor, and deep devotion to his family.

He completed high school and technical school before proudly serving his country in the United States Army and later the United States Air Force as an aircraft mechanic. His mechanical skill and dedication continued in civilian life as he maintained and repaired aircraft for many airports. Later, he became the owner of Walt’s Power Equipment in Pomfret, where he was a familiar and trusted presence in the community, known for his friendly conversations with customers and his wry predictions about whose lawn mower would need repair next.

In 1974, Walt married the love of his life, Lillian Rose. Together they built a life centered on family until her passing in 2017. A man of few words, he had his own colorful vocabulary and affectionate nicknames for those closest to him. His grandchildren lovingly called him “Noisy Papa,” “Papa Dude!,” and simply “Papa.” Though quiet by nature, his dry humor and steady presence left a lasting impression. He was a Mason and once had a country band called The Country Wonders. Walt cherished Western movies, which he watched countless times, along with his favorite shows Two and a Half Men and Looney Tunes, often filling the room with his deep laughter. He loved country music, especially from Willie’s Roadhouse and Buck Owens. He retired in December 2025 and moved to Florida to spend his winters as a snowbird.

Walt was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lillian Rose; his son, Brian Rose; his parents, Jesse Rose and Lorena Anderson; and his siblings, Edward Rose and Lorena Morin. He is survived by his loving children, Debra Jurek, Robin White (Kenny), Kristen Karkota (Chris), Walter J. Rose, Jr. (Vikki), and Garry Rose (Belinda); his grandchildren, Alexandra Rose, Carly Curtis (Sean), Brandon Rose (Samm), Tyler White (Lexi), Taylor White, and Ally Karkota; and his great-grandchildren, Bailey Curtis, Cooper Curtis, and Matthew Scott, Jr. He is also survived by his favorite cousin and best friend, Fred Stone, Jr. (Leila), his business partner and friend Jeff Perry, and many other extended family members and friends.

Walt will be remembered for his steady hands, his quiet wisdom, and the unmistakable way he made people smile without saying much at all. His legacy lives on in the family he loved and the countless lives he helped along the way.