Obituary of Walter James Blaine
Walter James Blaine, Age 84, of Thetford Township, died Friday, July 14, 2017, at Pray Family Care Home in Clio. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Holy Rosary Catholic Church on Wednesday, July 19, 2017, at 11:00 am. Rev. William Wegher to officiate with burial to follow in Flint Memorial Park. The family will receive friends at Martin Funeral, Cremation and Tribute Services in Mt. Morris on Tuesday, July 18, 2017, from 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm. Walter will lie in state at the church on Wednesday from 10:00 am until time of mass at 11:00 am. Family and friends will gather for a scripture service at the funeral home on Tuesday evening at 6:00 pm. Those desiring to make memorial contributions in Walter's memory may direct them towards the Alzheimer's Association. Envelopes are available at the funeral home and the church.
Mr. Blaine was born August 4, 1932, in Flint to the late Mr. and Mrs. Philander Joseph and Ione Bernadette (Carto) Blaine. He and Ruth Kaupp were united in marriage in 1957. Walter served in the United States Army during the Korean War. After returning home from his service, Walter worked for General Motors as a Designer and was a member of the UAW Local Union # 651. Walter was an avid sports fan and enjoyed being a referee and umpire for over 20 years. Walter enjoyed playing golf and was the treasurer on multiple golf leagues in the Swartz Creek and Kearsley areas. For many years, Walter was the treasurer and an active member of the Wagon Wheels Camping Group and loved traveling with his wife, Ruth, in their RV. Walter also enjoyed being a member of the Sweepstakes Club, reading, bowling, and spending time with his family.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife: Ruth (Kaupp) Blaine; daughter, Janice and husband David Skornicka; two sons: Jim and wife, Corinne Blaine, and David and wife, Karen Blaine; seven grandchildren: Sara and husband Justin Dubey, Kari and husband Cody Bryant, Marissa Blaine, Miranda Blaine, Melinda Blaine, Julian and wife Haley Blaine, and Daniel Blaine; six great-grandchildren; brother, Michael Blaine.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters: Norita Urban, and Elaine Nickoloff; two brothers: Patrick Blaine, and Daniel Blaine.
The family would like to extend special thanks to The Medical Team Hospice, especially Ashley and Charles, Rev. Fr. Roy Horning, and Teresa Pray.