Walter A. Payne

Walter Arthur Payne, “Papa, Walt, Wally” to many, at 95 years young, eternally went to be with the love of his life on Tuesday, March 21st, 2023. Born on July 26, 1927 in Superior, Wisconsin to Bill and Sophie Payne, Walter grew up in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and served four years in the US Navy. While stationed in New York City, Walter met Norma, the one who held his heart until he took his last breath. They married on August 15, 1948 and began their life together in Oshkosh, working at American Excelsior and retiring from Kingsbury. After retirement, Walter wanted to keep his mind “sharp” and opened Walt’s Sharpening Service out of his back porch. He took great pride in providing excellent service for low prices, leading to over 5,000 customers who he gladly served until 2018. Walter had a knack for fabricating things and “Walterizing” everyday items to better suit his needs. Anyone who knew Walter knew he’d always have an idea for modifying something, one of his endearing qualities that we loved about him. His unique ability to see things differently led to Walter’s involvement with the Oshkosh Children’s Day parade. He made floats for his children, grandchildren, and even the neighborhood kids, as well as ice skating rinks in winter and playhouses in the summer.

He was an avid painter, creating numerous pieces throughout his life and in the spirit of Emmett Kelly, would “clown around” at various Oshkosh locations. Many fond memories were made picking beans and tomatoes from his garden and getting the famous “Papa” back or foot rub. He loved bowling in league and Bingo at Simeanna with his friends. We are especially grateful to the residents of Simeanna III who watched over our Papa and kept him entertained. He loved you all!

Walter is survived by his three children Evelyn (Dave) Christensen, Janet (Daniel) Schneider, and Dennis Payne; grandchildren Tyson (Sonia), Tori and Tara Schneider, Lori (Aaron) Bruss and David Christensen; great-grandchildren Hannah, Megan, Olive, Norman, Harrison, Paysen, Justin, Kayla, Karissa, and Kiana. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, his only sister Marie, and his true love, Norma Payne.

Funeral services will be held at Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home Westside on Wednesday, March 29, 2023, with visitation from 3-6 pm and service starting at 6 pm. He will be laid to rest next to his soul mate at Lake View Memorial Park.

As sad as our hearts are to see you go, we know you are happy now, to be reunited with Nana, dancing into eternity, side by side, hand in hand, forever in love.