Walter Gustav Werner

Walter G. Werner died peacefully at his home in Ft. Collins, Colorado on Monday, February 10, 2025, with his wife Ann by his side. There is a saying that most people know, “they don’t make them like they used to” and this can certainly be said about Walter Werner. He was a man born of a time when all things were possible, and he made the most of that time. Walt’s story reads like one of an all-American hero. He was born in Detroit, Michigan to Dr. Walter I. Werner and Dr. Ly Werner, who then moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico to live and work in the pueblos. He loved the mystique and lifestyle of the west, but his life’s journey would take him away from the area until later in life. He graduated from The University of Notre Dame, served as a U.S. Navy officer (and POW) during the Korean War, was a relief pitcher for the Brooklin Dodgers, graduated from Northwestern University Law School was the President of the Lake Forest, Illinois School Board and had a 20-year career at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. In 1982, Walt and Ann moved to Wyoming to fulfill his childhood dream of returning west to run a cattle ranch and tend the land for a decade. Walt continued trading stocks, was a true entrepreneur in a myriad of businesses and retired at 80 after a 10-year professorship at the University of Wyoming Business School. He then moved with Ann to Ft. Collins, Colorado. Any man can be a father, but few who are also a “dad.” Walt was a dad, mentor, and friend to so many people in his life. He was always there to listen, support and offer advice when asked. He loved telling stories of his adventures (embellishing them when possible!) and fostering the relationships he had developed throughout his life. He is missed with fondness and gratitude by his family and friends and will be remembered for the impact he made on the lives of so many people. Walter is survived by his wife Ann, his children Brad (Robin) Werner, Susan (Tom) Wilby, his 3 stepchildren, Stefan (Joie) Nanini, Weston Nanini, Drea Nanini and her daughter Nehla as well as his 6 grandchildren, Tommy (Lucy) Werner, Cole (Katie) Werner, Frank (Alexis) Werner, Taylor (McKenzie) Wilby, James (Mary) Wilby, Cate Wilby and his 8 great-grandchildren. His first wife, Judith Ann Urban Werner, preceded him in death. Walt can be honored by contributions to University of Wyoming Walter Werner Memorial Fund Pathways-care.org/mail: pathways, 306 Carpenter Road, Fort Collins, CO 80524

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Walter Gustav Werner

September 28, 1932 - February 10, 2025