Rev. Paul Walters

In the early morning of January 26, 2017, Paul Walter’s hearty enthusiastic voice was blended with all the host of heaven. This man, who loved generously, treasured most being ‘papa’ to his grandchildren. Called as a teen to be a pastor, Paul served Methodist, Evangelical Covenant and Baptist churches in Mississippi, Virginia and Minnesota, including Lester Park UMC and Salem Covenant churches in Duluth. He also served hospitals as Director of Chaplaincy and Supervisor of Clinical Pastoral Education. Paul was a graduate of Milsaps College and Duke University Divinity School. He took his CPE residency at Medical College of Virginia and received his D Min in Marriage and Family Therapy from Aquinas Institute. His wisdom, insight and kindness blessed countless marriages and families. And yet, his favorite expression, known to all who knew Paul was, “I am blessed”.

Paul was born November 28, 1932 in Magee, Miss. to Elbert and Gladys Styron Walters. He is survived by his wife, (Gloria) Lou Walters, “Lou, my love”; sons, Richard Paul Walters Jr., John Reed Walters, Bruce M. (Sharon) Brown, Ronald T. (Martha) Brown, and Douglas S. (Delores) Brown. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brittany, Austin (Jona), Calvin (Dana), Olivia, Mahlin and Joshua Brown, Taylor (Trevor) Denault and Anthony Perrotta; brother Kersh (Judy) Walters, sister Mary (Raymond) Keasler, and many close family members including Lois (Jim) Weeks, Joyce (David) Eicher, and William Bell.  Paul was preceded in death by his parents; son, Robert Powell Walters; and sister-in-law Carol Kronholm Bell.

A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church in Two Harbors on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017 at 2PM with visitation from 12 to 2 PM, followed by a meal together. Private family interment at Lakeview Cemetery, Two Harbors, MN. Memorials are preferred and will be used for the music ministry at First Baptist Church, Two Harbors.

Thank you, Lord, for the blessing of Paul, who served in your name with wisdom and passionate care.