Mike " Wally" Doran Walter

In Loving Memory of Mike Doran Walter

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mike Walter, a beloved comedian, avid golfer, and passionate cook who brought laughter, warmth, and joy to everyone he met.

Mike's greatest joy was found in his family. He is survived by the love of his life, Gwen Evans; his devoted daughter Jessi, sons, David Walter (Monique) and Joseph Walter; and his loving sister, Mary Walter. He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, James Walter and Beverly Walter (Bailey).

A Life of Laughter and Entertainment, Mike's work ethic started early, working at a local café at just 13 years old and later at Eastside In and Out (now Eastside Big Toms) during high school. After high school, he worked at Georgia Pacific before following his true calling into stand-up comedy over 40 years ago.

As a comic, Mike performed coast-to-coast, traveling to Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and embarking on three tours to the Middle East to entertain American troops. His talent earned him appearances on Showtime, MTV, HBO, and A&E, and he was twice named a finalist in the Seattle Comedy Competition. For the final 15 years of his comedy career, Mike performed a highly acclaimed tribute show to Don Rickles, winning multiple awards. A true highlight of his life was meeting Rickles himself, who encouraged Mike to "keep my name alive." In a humorous twist of fate, a Florida newspaper once mistakenly used Mike’s picture instead of Don Rickles' to promote one of Rickles' own shows.

Outside of comedy, Mike was a man of many interests. He loved cooking for his family and friends and was always eager to try out new recipes. He was an avid golfer who proudly celebrated hitting two holes-in-one and frequently played in celebrity golf tournaments, where he was invariably the life of the party. Music was another major anchor in his life; he possessed an eclectic taste in tunes, with Boz Scaggs Greatest Hits Live holding a special place as his favorite album. Mike was also a fiercely loyal Seattle Seahawks fan, standing by his team through every win and loss.

Mike believed deeply in supporting his community. One of his final stand-up performances was a benefit show for the Olympia Food Bank, and he had been actively planning another benefit for this upcoming fall.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Mike’s memory by bringing non-perishable food items to support our local food bank.

Because Mike loved nothing more than cooking and sharing food, family and friends are invited to bring their favorite appetizer to share at the memorial service. If you wish, please bring along the recipe to share with others, just as Wally would have done.

Memorial Service will be held at the Elks Lodge at 1818 4th Ave E Olympia, WA  98506. 1pm - 3pm