Obituaries

Walter (Wally) L. Calpin, Jr., age 81, of North Scranton, passed away Tuesday morning at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton. On October 17, 2020 he was preceded in death by the love of his life and his wife of 56 years, Joan (Reed) Calpin.
Wally was born in Scranton on May 18, 1942, to the late Walter A., Sr. and Josephine (Kolojeski) Calpin. Educated at the former Scranton Technical High School, for over two decades prior to his retirement he worked as a forklift operator for Roadway Express in Tannersville.
He will long be remembered for so many things. He was the most kind, easy going, generous and humble man who was quick to make a friend wherever he went. From NASCAR and his annual trips to see the Daytona 500 to Formula 1, he absolutely loved racing. He was a longtime motorcycle enthusiast who never passed up the opportunity to go dirt biking or quading.
He made so many memories with Joan on numerous cruises or their annual February stays in Florida. He was a fixture at Kelly’s Pub, Neen’s Diner and, alongside his brother, anywhere in the valley that offered a good breakfast. Spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren whom he adored, meant everything to him and the family lake house at Lake Carey brought everyone together. A man of simple pleasures, he enjoyed hunting and fishing and riding his lawnmower. Loved by all who knew him, he’ll be forever missed.
He is survived by his four daughters, Jill Kelley and husband John of Old Forge, Teresa Vanchure and significant other Shawn Smurl of Scranton, Doreen Ackmann and husband Steven of N.J. and Colleen Rice and husband Michael of Scranton; his five grandchildren, Jonathan and Jordan Kelley, Zachary and Alivia Vanchure and Sophia Rice; his brother, Lawrence (Larry) Calpin and wife Phyllis of Taylor; and many nieces and nephews, including his goddaughter, Sharon Hill; and cousins. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Joann Zaleski.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Walter’s name to Mary, Mother of God Parish c/o 316 William Street, Scranton, PA 18508.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Tueday at 10:00 AM at Mary. Mother of God Parish, Scranton, with burial at Cathedral Cemetery to follow. Family and friends may pay their respects at the church on Tuesday from 9:00 AM until Mass. Those wishing to attend the funeral are asked to go directly to church.
Arrangements are under the care of the Kevin K. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 125 North Main Avenue, Scranton. Please visit the funeral home’s website to leave a condolence.