Walter Sleeper

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Walter Sleeper

WOOLWICH — Walter Bernard Sleeper, “Pete,” of Woolwich, beloved husband of Helen (Dunn) Sleeper for 23 years, passed away peacefully from a long-time illness on June 27, 2012 at Clover Manor in Auburn.

He was born on March 27, 1927 in Mechanic Falls to Ernestine (Coffin) Sleeper and the late Ralph Sleeper. He attended school in Mechanic Falls until he was called to proudly serve his country as part of the United States Navy, serving in World War II. Upon returning from the war he went to work for Bath Iron Works (General Dynamics) for 37 years, retiring in 1994. He took pride in his work on ships and was honored to spend time working in Hawaii for BIW. Due to serving his country, his education was interrupted. In 2003 he was a proud graduate of Poland Regional High School, receiving a long-awaited diploma, with friends and family cheering him on for his accomplishments.

He married Helen (Dunn) Sleeper on October 1, 1988. In his spare time he enjoyed woodworking, helping others and going on day trips with his wife and mother; whether picnicking by the ocean or dining out, fond memories were made. He was a member of the Solar Star Masonic Lodge #14 and recently received a Grand Lodge of Maine Veteran's Medal for 50 years of service.

Besides his wife Helen of Poland, Mr. Sleeper is survived by his mother, Ernestine Sleeper of Mechanic Falls; a sister, Helen Boyd of Mechanic Falls; a brother, Ralph (Skip) Sleeper and wife Mary of Poland; a son, Mark Sleeper Sr. and wife Sandra; a daughter, Jodi (Sleeper) Griffin and husband Ron; a granddaughter, Melissa Sleeper; a grandson, Mark Sleeper Jr. and wife Anna; a great-granddaughter, Nadalie Sleeper;his stepchildren, Debra and Lloyd Boyd Jr., Kristine and Ira Simmons, Reginald Dunn, Marcia and Arthur Gagne, Joyce Dunn and companion John and Diane Dunn and companion Marvin as well as many nieces, nephews and step-grandchildren. He was predeceased by his father, Ralph Sleeper; a brother-in-law, Lloyd Boyd Sr. and a stepson, Kerry Jon Dunn.

He will forever be remembered as a generous, selfless, loving man, who always put others first as a way of life, a kind soul who will be sadly missed.

Graveside services will be held privately at Maple Grove Cemetery in Mechanic Falls. Arrangements are under the direction of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 26 W. Dwinal St., Mechanic Falls. On-line condolences may be shared with his family at www.chandlerfunerals.com.