Walter Priebe

Born on September 5, 1947, the son of Alvin and Lillian (Rosin) Priebe, Walter’s life was a testament to his kind, selfless, and faith-filled nature, which touched the lives of all who knew him. Raised in Marquette, Walter was a proud graduate of Marquette Senior High School, class of 1965. His passion for learning and his desire to inspire young minds led him to Emanuel Lutheran College, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. Walter’s teaching career began in Fond du Lac, where he taught elementary education at Luther Memorial Christian Day School. He later continued his vocation in Red Wing, MN, at Our Redeemer, shaping the lives of countless students over a span of 20 years.

After retiring from teaching, Walter served as a cook at Emmanuel Lutheran College and Seminary for five years. His journey came full circle when he returned to Marquette, dedicating himself to the care of his mother. Walter’s commitment to his faith was evident through his instrumental role at Calvary Lutheran Church in Marquette, where he served as organist, choir director, and church council member.

Walter’s talents were many and varied. He was known as a jack of all trades, from directing choirs and planning parties to undertaking construction projects. His creative spirit shone through in his baking of wedding cakes, flower arranging, and his recent venture into diamond painting. Walter’s volunteer work at the pantry at Pine Ridge was a reflection of his generous spirit.

Walter was a respected bartender at the Elks Lodge and a valued employee at Dallas Cleaners, where he retired in September of 2024. His dependability, loving nature, and compassionate support made him a good friend and the kind of man who would give you the shirt off his back.

Walter’s legacy is carried on by his loving siblings: Pat Johns of Marquette and her children, David (Reikko) Johns of Japan, Mary (Mike) Horvath of Gwinn, and Cindi Sobczak of Marquette, MI; sister Linda (Ron) Niemi of Marquette and her son Scott Mager of Beaver Dam, WI; Paulette Parent and her daughters Barb Hellman of Marquette and Heather (Joe) Edmondson of Marquette; niece Cheryl Wakkuri of Palmer; and nephews Jon Wakkuri of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Keith Miller of Marquette. His life was further enriched by several great-nieces and nephews, his good friend Jeff Scott, and numerous cousins.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents; his sisters Mimi Wakkuri, Eunice Miller, and Charolette Priebe; his brothers; David Priebe and an infant brother Jon Priebe; brothers-in-law; Flinco Wakkuri, Butch Parent, Milton Johns; and nephew Greg Mager.

Walter Carl Priebe’s life was a beautiful mosaic of service, education, and love. His unwavering faith and the joy he brought to others will be deeply missed but never forgotten. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate the enduring impact he made on his family, his church, and the many hearts he touched throughout his journey.

Funeral services for Walter will be on November 14, 2024 at Calvary Lutheran Church. Visitation will take place from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm with funeral services at 12:00 pm. Pastor Paul Agenten will officiate. A funeral luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall. Burial will take place in St. Paul’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Calvary Lutheran Church, 450 West Ohio Street, Marquette, MI 49855.

Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family, where condolences may be expressed online at fassbenderswansonhansen.com.