Walter Thomas McKinny

Family and friends are mourning the unexpected passing of Walter Thomas McKinny. He passed away peacefully on April 19, 2023 after a brief illness, surrounded by his family and Sisters at Mary Health of the Sick in Newbury Park, CA. He was 93.

Born February 18,1930 to Walter John and Jane McKinny of Ventura, he was brother to Bill and Eleanor. He graduated from Ventura High School and received a football scholarship to USC. In his sophomore year, he enlisted in the Air Force where he served in the Korean War as a central gunner on a B-29. After he returned from the war, he finished his education in business.

His sister Eleanor introduced him to the love of his life, Marylyn Gartiser.They were married at Santa Clara Church in 1955 and raised three children, Michelle, Michael, and Francine. After the early death of Marylyn in 1995, Walt took on a very active role of "Papa" to Emilie and Chase McKinny, Matt and Luke Stotko. He became a bonus Papa to Geoff Stotko.

Walt's career included Power Machinery, Puritan Leasing, ITT and finally GE Capital in Merger and Acquisitions. He also served as president of the Rio Mesa Athletic Boosters from 1978-1980 and he was a member of the Rancheros Adolfo. After retirement, he enjoyed many family gatherings, trips and events with his longtime companion Bonnie Klea.

Lake Tahoe was his favorite place on earth and this is where he and his family enjoyed summers in Chamberlands for over 50 years. Both he and Marylyn were expert water skiers and they passed that love to their children and grandchildren. Walt and Marylyn were famous for hosting many groups in Tahoe and they created lifelong memories for family and friends.

Walt was a friend to all and a mentor to many. He was incredibly proud to be married into a 4th generation homesteading Ventura County family and could have charged admission for his historical stories and tours.

First and foremost in his life was his family and he was immensely proud of the successes of his children and his grandchildren. He is survived by his adult children, Michelle (Mark), Michael (Lisa), Francine (Gary) and grandchildren, Emilie, Chase, Geoff, Matt and Luke. He leaves behind his longtime companion Bonnie Klea. His wife of 40 years, Marylyn McKinny and sister Eleanor Ananias preceded him in death.

Life was never ordinary with Walt and as many of you know, he loved a good gathering and party even better. A Catholic Mass and celebration of life will be held to honor this great man. Please join his family at Saint Mary Magdalen Catholic Church on the corner of Las Posas and Crestview in Camarillo on Wednesday June 28 at 11:00 a.m. Reception will immediately follow to share stories, laughter and tears, but most importantly, to celebrate Walt's life which he recently described as "A perfect life, I wouldn't change a thing."

Special thanks to his caregivers who gave him the gift of living at home.

In Lieu of Flowers, please consider donating to Mary Health of the Sick in Newbury Park, CA.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Walter Thomas McKinny, please visit our floral store.