Walter Hutchens “Wally” Christofferson passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, at Hospice of the Valley – Dobson Home, at the age of 81.

Wally was born August 29, 1944, in Eau Claire, WI. He spent his childhood there forming lifelong memories at the family cabin on Chain Lake in New Auburn. He developed a love for the water, learning to ski behind the family’s vintage Chris-Craft wooden boat and enjoying summers surrounded by family and friends.

In 1966, Wally married Judy (Matz) Christofferson, and in 1970 they moved to Mesa, AZ with their two daughters. There he began a distinguished career with Luce Press Clippings, starting in sales and quickly rising through the organization. A visionary in technology, Wally led the company’s transition to computerized operations, introducing IBM midrange systems and earning a reputation as an innovator within the IBM community. He later served on the IBM AS/400 Advisory Board during the development of the groundbreaking platform and continued advising after its release. Wally continued his career with JJ Croney & Associates in Phoenix and later QCM Technologies in Scottsdale, where he worked until his retirement in 2018.

Following Judy’s passing, Wally married Carol Bramall and together they built a loving life and raised two sons.

Wally was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease approximately 25 years ago, but the illness never defined him. He faced it with determination and resilience, continuing to live a full and joyful life, remaining engaged with family, friends, and the pursuits he loved until the very end.

Wally was deeply proud of his family and especially enjoyed the unique distinction of having both the oldest and youngest children among his siblings’ families. He loved science and technology, golfing, entertaining, cooking, and stargazing. Known for his warmth, curiosity, and gift for conversation, Wally made friends easily and left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He found immense joy in his children and grandchildren, whom he adored and spoke of often with pride.

Wally is survived by his beloved wife, Carol (Bramall) Christofferson; his children Janet (Duane) Pudenz, Pam (Steve) Prast, Sean and Adam Christofferson; and his cherished grandchildren Jake and Zach Pudenz, and Ella Prast. He is also survived by his siblings Ralph (Dottie), Mark, Steve, Carol, and Pete (Judy) Christofferson; his uncle Ralph Hutchens; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his first wife Judy (Matz) Christofferson, his parents Maxine (Hutchens)  and Walter C. Christofferson, and his brother Charles “Chuck” Christofferson.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00pm on Tuesday, March 3rd 2026, at Meldrum Mortuary, 52 North MacDonald, Mesa, Arizona. Immediately followed by a reception to be held at the home of Pete and Judy Christofferson. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Disease at give.michaeljfox.org.

Wally’s warmth, curiosity, strength, and love for people will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.