Walter Marvin Cartwright, 83

March 28, 1938 – Nov. 10, 2021

Heaven opened to receive another angel this day. Walter passed away peacefully at home the morning of Nov. 10, 2021. Rest in peace Daddy at home with Momma and God!

Walter “Walt” was born March 28, 1938, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He is preceded in death by his wife, Linda R. (Gestrin; Schultzaberger; Booth) Cartwright, May 5, 2021; his mother, Sarah (Ness) Cartwright; father, Marvin L. Cartwright; sister, Barbara A. (Cartwright) Mitchell; and grandparents, Walter O. and Pearl G. Cartwright.

Walter is survived by his children; Marvin Wray Cartwright (Kim); Barbara L. Cartwright; Vernon L. Cartwright; Verna L (Cartwright) Neustal, and Richard E. Cartwright (Renee). And “informally adopted” Maria Franken; six grandchildren; Robert, Katrina, Kristina, Lauren, Emily, and Bryan; 13 great-grandchildren; first great-great grandchild, and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

Walt called Coeur d’Alene home his entire life with the exception of the time he served in the U.S. Army from July 25, 1956, to July 24, 1959. After leaving the Army, Walt was well known as a local mechanic. He worked for several local shops throughout his career including Robideaux Motors and Sunset Dodge before going out on his own as an independent mechanic working from his home garages. He finally retired at 67 years old when cars became more computerized with more technology than he could imagine learning.

Apparently, Walt was a bit of a handful when it came to school which ultimately resulted in a “strong” recommendation by the school principal that he leave high school prior to graduation. He followed that advice and went directly to enlist in the U.S. Army which he felt was the best option at the time. He earned his GED during this time as well. When he completed his service, it didn’t take any time to find the love of his life, Linda. He met her on the steps of Coeur d’Alene City Hall during the “good old Sherman Drag Street Days”. They married on July 1, 1960. A union that stood the test of time for almost 61 years! Walt had a bit of “bad boy” in him that led to a drinking problem in his younger years. We; as his children feel that one of his greatest accomplishments was his sobriety. He lived the last 32 years of his life sober. We are so grateful to have been able to grow in our relationships with him over the years!

When Linda’s career moved into managing the Hospice of North Idaho Thrift Stores Walt followed. He served as her “leading volunteer” until her retirement in 2015. He ultimately became the “fix it guy”. He worked in the back room making sure the electronic and mechanical donations were in working order before going on the floor for sale. Walt became a beloved volunteer by his peers, despite his frequent and frequently questionable sense of humor. For anyone who needed, or not, a laugh he was the “go to guy”. Walt found great satisfaction and fulfillment in being a support for Linda in her dream career and came to have a deep appreciation for the work Hospice of North Idaho provides to our community.

In Walt’s younger years, he and Linda were well known in the local Cove Bowl leagues. Walt also had a knack for playing pool in the local taverns. Walt enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting with his family and friends over the years. After retirement he developed a little wood working hobby that filled his days. Together Walt and Linda gathered up their handcrafted goods and tried their “hand” at local craft fairs for many years.

Later in life, Walt found his way to the Candlelight Fellowship Church through the accompaniment of Linda where they attended regularly. Walt continued attending even after the passing of Linda where he found so much support and love. Despite his difficulty expressing himself and his questionable sense of humor, he was dearly loved and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him!

A special thank you to the 911 operator, police officer, emergency responders and Yates Funeral staff who responded to the call that fateful day! We could not have asked for more responsive and compassionate support with Dad’s passing.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m., Dec. 4, 2021, at Yates Hayden Chapel 373 E. Hayden Ave, Hayden Idaho. There will be light refreshments following the service and then a procession to follow for the Graveside Services at Coeur d’Alene Memorial Garden 7315 N. Government Way Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Yates Funeral Home has been entrusted with Final arrangements. Please visit Walter’s online memorial at yatesfuneralhomes.com and sign his guestbook.