Walter Eugene Buechele Jr, was born October 15, 1932 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He peacefully passed away on August 25, 2024. He was preceded in death by his wife, Frances Brogan Buechele and brother, Eugene Walter Buechele. He is survived by his children (Walter, John, Christine, Francis and Michele), twelve grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.
Walter was the oldest of 2 sons, born to Elizabeth Leon Daly and Walter Eugene Buechele, Sr. The family lived in Southwest Philadelphia and Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. They were members of St. Cyril Catholic Church. Walter attended West Catholic High School for Boys from 1948 to 1951 where he was enrolled in the College Prep Program and participated in 4 years of football and track.
In 1951, he met Frances Emma Marie Brogan on a blind date. Walter attended West Chester State Teacher’s College from 1951-1955 where he majored in the Teacher Education program for Math and English. He participated in 4 years of football and track. Upon graduation in 1955, he started his teaching and coaching career at Interboro High School in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. Walter married Frances in 1956, and they had 5 children: Walter E. III, John S., Christine A., Francis E., and Michele.
In 1962, Walter became part of the West Chester faculty as an associate professor and football coach. Walter received his Master’s Degree and pursued his Doctorate in Education. He and his wife “obtained” his doctoral degree from Temple University in 1972.
In 1979, Walter and others founded The Killinger Foundation which offered many football scholarships. Walter was also a member of the Swope Foundation which raised money for educational scholarships. While at the college, he also served as Athletic Director and ran the Summer Schools Program.
In 1990, Walter and Fran fully retired from West Chester and moved to Pinehurst, North Carolina. They enjoyed playing golf and time with family and friends. They were members of Sacred Heart Parish. During this time, Walt and Fran were blessed with 12 grandchildren (Walter, Andrew, Leslie, Christopher, Allie, Megan, Melissa, Tara, Natalie, Patrick, Nikki and Rebecca) and great grandchildren (Robby, Elliott, Gabe, Ada, Mae, Brogan, and twin boys coming soon!).
Walter wanted to be known as a loving husband and father, a teacher and a coach who was firm but fair. His family and the athletes he coached were everything and the joy of his life.
A celebration of life for Walter and Fran will be held in the future.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Health Hospice House of Pinehurst, North Carolina.
Online condolences may be made at www.BolesFuneralHome.com
Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Pinehurst.
