Walter Leon Fassler

September 19, 1922 - June 13, 2019

Walter L. Fassler, age 96, died Thursday June 13, 2019 at his home surrounded by his family. Three years to the day he said good-bye to his wife, Mary, of 70 years Walter rejoined her to again, smile, laugh, hold hands, say their prayers and reminisce on their well-lived life together. Walter had been a farmer and also worked at Lone Star Cement in Dixon prior to his retirement. He married Mary Ackert August 4, 1945, in Walton, IL. Walt was an active member of St Patrick Catholic Church in Dixon and Knights of Columbus Council 690 in Dixon. He was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, Mary June 13, 2016, one grandson, Scott, one great grandson, Colton, brothers Joseph, Albert, Frank and John Fassler. Walt is survived by children Theresa (Charles) Parsons of Bolingbrook, Carl (Debbie) Fassler of Dixon, Robert (Cindy) Fassler of Dixon, Francis (Raeann) Fassler of Dixon, Thomas (Susan) Fassler of Sublette, Patricia (Mark) Jordan of Dixon, Anthony (Berta) Fassler of Mt Morris and Margaret "Peggy" (Mark) Menke of Healy Alaska, 22 grandchildren and 41 great grandchildren. Walter was a devoted father and a model husband. He had a deep faith. Mary and he did devotions and the rosary every day of their marriage. He and Mary travelled thousands of miles to attend dozens of graduations, weddings, sporting events, and first communions. They also visited Switzerland, the birth country of his parents, camped in Alaska, hiked along the Grand Canyon but were always most happy in their own home. Walter was an avid gardener. His specialty was tomatoes and the ones he planted this spring will be bearing fruit later in the summer. Many are still eating the corn he helped freeze and the pickles he canned last season. His roses are beautiful and admired. He enjoyed many years of fishing. He taught grandchildren the art of baiting a hook, reeling in a catch, and identifying the fish. Fish from Lee County ponds to streams in the north visited his line. He used his time near the water to relax, reflect and teach. In his retirement Walt took up woodcarving. Every Christmas he would make nine or more Santas as presents to his wife and children. Many others are honored to have a Walter Fassler original. He did not sell his work but would often donate a piece to benefit the church or school. He was still carving in his 96th year often while watching ‘The Virginian’ or a Hallmark movie. Walter Fassler lived a deep and meaningful life. He exemplified the values of family, faith, service, and love. He was devoted to his wife, his family, his friends and his church. He will be remembered fondly for his calm demeanor, his wry sense of humor, his generosity, his faithfulness and his love as a husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Many are blessed to have witnessed and been touched by his well-lived life. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Wednesday June 19, 2019 at 10:30 AM at St Patrick Catholic Church in Dixon with the Rev. Keith Romke officiating. Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery in Dixon. Visitation will be on Tuesday from 4:00 until 8:00 PM with the Rosary recited at 7:30 PM at the Holloway Center at St Patrick Catholic Church. Memorials have been established to Serenity Hospice and Home in Oregon, the Denali Educational Center Scott Menke Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 212, Denali, AK, 99755, and St. Patrick Catholic Church Light of the World Fund in Dixon.