Obituary of Walter S. Duralek
Walter S. Duralek, who graced this world with his presence for 80 years, departed from us on Thursday, February 22, 2024. His final moments were spent at Autumn Lake HealthCare in Berkeley Heights, surrounded by the love and warmth of his children. Walter's journey began in an extraordinary manner; he was born in a taxi cab en route to a hospital in Elizabeth. He spent his formative years in Elizabeth and later made Roselle his home, where he lovingly raised his family.
Walter's sense of duty and patriotism led him to serve in the United States Navy from 1960 to 1964, where he served on the Destroyer USS Miller DD535, where his ship participated in the blockade of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He was stationed at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, where he served his country with pride. Following his military service, Walter embarked on a career in printing that would span his entire professional life. He contributed his expertise to various companies across New Jersey, Plymouth Printing and Graphic Securities, with Service Press in Metuchen being his final place of work. During his semi-retirement phase, Walter enthusiastically worked at Newark Liberty Airport, de-icing planes in preparation for take off.
An active community member, Walter was affiliated with the American Legion in Roselle and volunteered as a call man for the Roselle Fire Department and Pinewood Estates Fire Departments in Barnegat. His younger days were filled with being a member of the Kay-Wo Fishing Club of Elizabeth and the joys of bowling at Jersey Lanes in Linden, He coached little league at St. Joseph’s Boy's League and volunteered at the Roselle paper station, recycling newspapers. Walter had a passion for the simpler pleasures in life, such as spending time at his shore home in Barnegat, crabbing, and exploring the Manahawkin flea market for hidden treasures and bargains. Walter loved animals and would fearlessly pick up any animal in need to help and nurture. Walter's sense of humor remained one of his most cherished and memorable attributes.
Walter's journey was preceded by the loss of his beloved wife, Theresa Duralek, in 2019, and his siblings Michael, Stanley, Betty Joan, Mary, Edward, Adele, Edgie, and Joseph.
He leaves behind a legacy through his children, Walter and his wife Shari, Denise, and Matthew and his wife Megan; his grandchildren, Daelynn, Walter Li, Vincent, and Max; and his brother Thomas, alongside a multitude of extended family members and dear friends who were touched by his life.
The family invites friends and loved ones to a visitation on Monday, February 26, 2024, from 4 to 8 pm at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, NJ 07069. A funeral service to honor and celebrate Walter’s life will be held on Tuesday, February 27, at 11 am at the funeral home, with burial to follow at Rosedale Cemetery in Linden. Walter's memory will forever be a beacon of joy, resilience, and humor for all who knew him.
