James Aloysius "Bear" Walter Jr

James Aloysius “Bear”  Walter Jr., 69, of Grafton, passed away peacefully at the Taylor County Healthcare Center on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, surrounded by the love and presence of his family. He was born in Grafton, West Virginia, on April 19, 1956, a beloved son of Lottie Jeanette Haskiell Walter and the late James Aloysius Walter Sr.

Bear was a proud graduate of Grafton High School, Class of 1974 and devoted many years of his life working as a mechanic and tire repairman at Steinbacks/Elders and Phil’s Tire Shop. Known for his strong work ethic and willingness to lend a helping hand, Bear took pride in his work and the friendships he formed along the way. He was a faithful member of St. Augustine Catholic Church.

A man of simple joys and a generous heart, Bear loved settling in with a good book and never missed an opportunity to strike up a conversation. He had an easy way about him, always laughing, sharing stories, and making both old friends and new feel welcome. Above all else, Bear cherished his family, whom he considered his greatest blessing and source of happiness.

In addition to his mother, Bear is survived by two sisters, Mary Catherine Walter Smith and Elizabeth Ann Walter (Keith) three brothers, Robert Thomas, John Francis Walter (Tammy), and Thomas Edward Walter (Cheryl); along with many loving nieces and nephews who will forever treasure his kindness and humor.

In addition to his father, Bear was preceded in death by his brother, William “Bill” Edward Walter.

Family and friends will be received at Bartlett Funeral Home, 202 McGraw Avenue, Grafton, on Sunday, December 28, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., and on Monday, December 29, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m., the hour of the Catholic Funeral Liturgy, with Father Babu Joseph serving as Celebrant. Interment will follow at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Online condolences may be extended to the family at www.bartlettfuneralhomewv.com. Bartlett Funeral Home is honored to serve the Walter family.

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