Walter Gaedecke

Walter Gaedecke, 94, of Charlottesville, VA and formerly of Meadville, died Sunday, August 24, 2003 in the Coronary Care Unit of University of Virginia Hospital, Charlottesville.

He was born in Germany, September 2, 1908, a son of the late Franz and Sophie Assai Gaedecke.  He married Gertrude Kardos September 2, 1933 and she preceded him in death July 16, 1998.  He subsequently married June Moon and she survives.

He retired in 1970 as a design engineer with Westinghouse and Sunbeam following many years of service.  He also was owner and operator of a service station at the corner of Liberty and Davis Streets, Meadville.  He was a former Olympic gymnast for Germany, a life member of Meadville Elks Lodge #219, a member of the Senior Center of Charlottesville, a passionate bowler, and an avid gardener.

He was a member of St. Brigid Roman Catholic Church.

Survivors, in addition to his wife, include a son, Cdr. Walter R. Gaedecke, USN (Ret.) and his wife Cynthia of Huddleston, VA; a daughter, Marilyn Helleberg and her husband Dr. John of Charlottesville, VA; 4 grandchildren, Nicole “Nikki” Gaedecke, John Helleberg, Brian Helleberg, and Cpt. David Gaedecke; and 3 great-grandchildren.  In addition to his first wife, he was preceded in death by a son, Arthur Gaedecke.

Calling hours will be Thursday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at the Robert W. Waid Funeral Home, 581 Chestnut St., Meadville where a funeral service will follow at 2:30 p.m.

Interment will be in St. Brigid Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Meadville Elks Lodge #219 Scholarship Fund, 15438 State Hwy 86, Meadville, PA 16335.