Walter W. Piersol

He graduated from Academy High School in Erie, Pa. He continued his education at the Rochester Institute of Technology, earning a bachelor degree in 1964 and a masters degree in 1965 in graphic design. Walter worked for the Dunkirk Area School District as an art teacher with 35 of service, retiring in 1995.

Walter was an avid sailor who designed, built and restored several boats over the years including his prized “Ardea” that he designed and built with the help from his nephew, James. He enjoyed multiple international sailing excu-sions including sailing across the Indian Ocean. Beyond sailing his other passion was art and Walter was a gifted artist and sculptor who worked in a multitude of media. Walter was able to marry his joy of sailing with his art and had many pieces of his works exhibited at the Maritime Gallery at Mystic Seaport for several years in addition to a multitude of local and regional exhibitions.

Of course, to his great nieces and nephews he will always be known for his incredible firework displays on the 4th of July at the family cottage on Lake Erie.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his wife of 51 years, Francine (Grehl) Piersol. In addition to his wife he is survived by his sister-in-law, Frances (Kay) Piersol; a niece, Michele (Peter) Piersol Lawson of Fairview, Pa.; and nephews: James J. (Anne) Piersol of Northeast, Pa., Scott (Ranae) Grehl of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Michael Grehl of San Diego, Calif., Kenton Langstroth and Blair (Andrea) Langstroth of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

A private service for Walter was held on Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2022 at the Gate of Heaven Cemetery in Erie, Pa.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Westfield Fire Department and Emergency Squad, memorial contributions in Walter’s memory may be made to this organization.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mason Funeral Home, 37 Clinton St. Westfield, N.Y.

Please share condolences and remembrances at www.masonfuneral.com.