Walter James Wilber, 50, passed away surrounded by his loved ones on November 1, 2024, at St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay, WI. Born on July 23, 1974, in Milwaukee, Walter was a cherished son to his late parents, Merlin Wilber and Marena Pamanet (nee Danforth). He grew up in Milwaukee and spent his teenage years in Bay View, WI where he first met his future partner, Wendy Soderbeck. In 1993, he moved to Green Bay, WI where he would live for the next 30 years until settling in Suring, WI in late 2023.

Walter obtained his GED and worked as a cook in various restaurants in and around Green Bay before settling at Chartwell at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay where he cooked and was a cashier for staff and students. His culinary career was interspersed with stints behind the scenes at numerous concerts, providing security and managing stage setups and breakdowns. This role enabled him to meet and interact with many notable musicians.

An avid Green Bay Packers fan, Walter also had a profound love for literature, especially the works of Stephen King, which he often enjoyed discussing with friends. He adored movies and live shows, ranging from music concerts to wrestling and comedy. Cooking for gatherings was another passion, bringing joy to both him and to those he fed.

He is survived by his loving partner of 15 years, Wendy Soderbeck; his son, Arthur James "AJ" Wilber (mother: Lisa Dolan); stepdaughter, Laura Gaines; nieces and nephews, Wesley "Peanut" Bridges Jr., Marena Bridges, Carl "CJ" Bridges, Grace Allenby; aunts, Robin Emmerton and Carole Liggins; and a host of cousins.

Walter was a family man at heart, whose happiest moments were those spent surrounded by his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sibling Carla Bridges (nee Skenandore), Scott Skenandore, and Amy Allenby (nee Wilber), whose memories he held close to his heart.

Family and friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth St. De Pere, WI 54115, on Tuesday November 12, 2024, from 9:00am until time of service at 11:00am. The Oneida Hymn Singers will sing at 10:30am. Burial will take place at Holy Apostles Cemetery, 2937 Freedom Rd. Oneida, WI 54155, following services.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the medical staff at St. Vincent ICU for their compassionate care during his final days. Special thanks also go to Walter's friends Pork Stevens, Frank VandeHei, Angie Yee, Jerry "Smokey" Howard, Karelyn Morrison, Tyla Steffens, Heather Kuik, and Tony Badgett, who were a significant part of his support network.

In remembrance of Walter, the family suggests that condolences and memories be shared in lieu of flowers. Walter's legacy is one of love and laughter, profoundly impacting all who knew him. His stories and the memories he created will continue to comfort his family and friends for years to come. We are grateful that he is now at peace, reunited with his parents and siblings whom he missed so, so dearly.