Walter Dale Jr. Susdorf

Walter Dale Susdorf Jr., age 92 of La Crosse died April 22, 2016 surrounded by his loving family.

He was born October 25, 1923 in South Bend, Indiana to Walter Dale Sr. and Hazel Malchow Susdorf.

When he was five, his family moved to Neenah, Wisconsin. He graduated from Neenah High School in June, 1982. In November of 1942 he enlisted in U.S. Navy. He went through boot camp at Great Lakes and through Aviation Ordinance School in Chicago. After graduation he served aboard the U.S.S. Bunker Hill, an aircraft carrier, for 28 months in the South Pacific. His carrier received the President Unit Citation for its involvement in eleven different battle engagements with the Japanese. He received two purple hearts for injuries received in battle. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in February, 1946.

He attended the University of Wisconsin, Madison and received his B.S. degree in education. He taught and coached at Gibralter High School and Manitowoc Lincoln High School. He returned to the University of Wisconsin and received his M.S. degree in guidance and counseling. While attending college, he married his high school sweetheart, Jean Landskron. They had five children together.

In 1968, he was appointed Associate Principle of Central High School in La Crosse, a position he held until his retirement in 1986. He was admired by faculty and students alike. After his retirement, much of his time was spent volunteering for different organizations. He also served on several boards and was very active in his church.

He and his wife enjoyed traveling with special friends all over the world. No place was too far away to visit and enjoy. One if his favorite places was China.

Walter is survived by his wife, Jean, four children; Patricia Becker, Milwaukee; Markkie Susdorf, Columbus; Daniel (Lisa) Susdorf, Neenah; Joseph Susdorf, La Crosse; ten grandchildren; Brad Hacker, Aaron (Allison) Susdorf, Wendy (Warren Handke) Susdorf, Nina (Ben) Facio, Mallory Susdorf, Justin (Megan) Susdorf, Jenna (Adam) Ruplinger, Brittany, Bradley and Briann Susdorf; eleven great grandchildren, Ashely, Jessica, Andrew, Corissa, Weston, Willis, Jacob, Brockton, Brinelle, Nolan, Teegan; Four great great grandchildren; Valerie, Caius, Isaiah, Aubrey; his brother Robert (Barbara) Susdorf and his many nieces.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jeffery Susdorf; grandson, Eric Hacker; and other extended family.

A Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 AM Friday, April 29, 2016, in Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 130 Losey Blvd, La Crosse, WI. Msgr. Robert Hundt will officiate. Family and friends may call from 9:00 AM until the time of Mass at Church on Friday. A private family burial will be held at a later date.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff of doctors, nurses and surgeons of Gunderson Health System for their care, kindness and unconditional support during Walter`s last days.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Family and Children Center, Mayo Health System, Salvation Army or Blessed Sacrament Church.

Rest in Peace “Wads” you will be greatly missed.