Walter Anthony O’Brocta

1935, joining Frank and Caroline’s large family.

Walt had many stories of mischief and antics involving his siblings and cousins during his youth which he loved to share. A lifelong resident of Dunkirk, Walt was a graduate from Dunkirk High class of 1953. He then attended one semester at the Pennsylvania Military College on a history scholarship. However, while playing his favorite sport of football at the college he damaged his knee. The military was going to allow him to receive an honorable

discharge at that time but he insisted on continuing directly into service with the United States Army. During which he was stationed in Munich, Germany. There he enjoyed

the company of his fellow Army buddies, as well as traveling Europe on his leave time. Once he left the service with an honorable discharge, he attended a barber school in Erie,

Pennsylvania and received his license as an apprentice. Walt began working for Al Tech Specialty Steel in 1959 putting in 38 years at Al Tech until his retirement in 1997.

In retirement, he kept busy at the family business, Frank J. O’Brocta Salvage. He loved his home and made several trips to Alaska to visit his grandchildren. Those blessed to have known Walter knew of his generosity and his kindness, his faith, as well as his love and devotion for his family. He was a parishioner of Blessed Mary Angela Parish of St. Hyacinths.He was most proud of his children, Judith (Ritchie) Leibl of Dunkirk, NY & Stephen (Sarah) O’Brocta of Petersburg, AK. His heart was full of love for his grandchildren, Max of Missoula, MT, Lora and Owen of Petersburg, AK.Walt has joined his parents & grandparents as

well as his sisters, Virginia Buffa, Marie Majecki, and brother, James. He is survived by the mother of his children, Diana Kane, his brothers, Frank, Richard & Paul, sister, Dorothy (George) Wolfe, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated Saturday

morning at 10 o’clock in Blessed Mary Angela Parish, Church of St. Hyacinth. Full Military Honors will be accorded by the Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council Honor Guard.

Calling hours will be held today from 4-7 p.m. at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home. Burial will be in St. Hyacinth’s Cemetery.