Walter Joseph Wildenhaus

Walter Joseph Wildenhaus, age 69, of Dayton, passed away after a long battle with cancer on December 20, 2018. Walt, or "Joe" as his family referred to him, was born in Dayton to the late Mary and Walter B. Wildenhaus on May 8, 1949. He attended Patterson Co-op and graduated from Belmont High School. After completing his education, Walt went on to work for Delco for many years, until his retirement.

Walt was an outgoing and fun-loving man. He never knew a stranger and made friends everywhere he went. He had a very memorable sense of humor and an ability to always bring a smile to your face with his direct nature.

He had a caring and compassionate nature and was always involved with his community. Walter met the love of his life, Gary Benbow, July 13, 1994. The two shared the next 24 years together and were married in 2016 in Sarasota, FL, where they lived at the time.

Walt was a generous and kind husband, brother, step-father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He will be missed by all who knew him.

In addition to his parents, Walt was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Teresa Wildenhaus; and brother, Michael Wildenhaus.

Walter leaves to cherish his memory, best friend and husband, Gary Benbow; step-sons, Todd (Angela) Benbow and Eric (Melissa) Benbow; granddaughters, Arielle and Alia; brothers, Bill (Joni) Wildenhaus, Don (Paula) Wildenhaus, Mark (Kelly) Wildenhaus, Tim Wildenhaus, and Chuck Wildenhaus; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends and neighbors.

A memorial service honoring Walter's life will be held at Newcomer - North Chapel on Saturday, January 5, 2019 at 4pm. Visitation and Gathering for two hours prior to service (2pm - 4pm). To leave a special message for the family or share a memory, please select "Share Memories".