Walter Eppelin

January 17, 1929 - December 25, 2008
Walter Eppelin

Memorial Gifts & Donations




Walter Henry Eppelin passed away December 25th, 2008 in Carolina Beach, NC.

He was born Jan 17th, 1929 in Buesingen Germany the father of two grown children: Jim Eppelin of Atlanta, GA and Isabelle E. Detter of Millington, TN. He is also survived by four grandchildren: Andrea (12), Erin (10), William (3) and Hannah (2). His sister Ruth Deblue and her family reside in Geneva Switzerland. Nora Eppelin, his ex wife and friend, resides in Atlanta, GA.

Walter obtained an apprenticeship in electro-mechanics at Carl Meyer and Company in Schaffhausen, Switzerland in 1948. He immigrated first to Canada in 1952 and ultimately to the United States in 1954. He became a naturalized US citizen in the 8th District Court of Los Angeles in 1963.

A patriotic American, he was firm believer in the American dream and lived it by working his way up from a job as a tool and die maker with Ford Aircraft Engine Division in Chicago to General Manager of a multi-million dollar printing plant in Newton, NC that he constructed and ran as the head of this 500 employee operation.

Walter was a beloved husband, father and humanitarian with a strong compassion and love for both people and animals. He was intelligent, outgoing, charming and had a great sense of humor. Being charismatic and a great creative problem solver made him a natural born leader.

He was an active individual and enjoyed sailing, hiking, and skiing. Growing up, Walter competed in gymnastics and won first place in the state competition held in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Walter was fascinated by the beauty of nature, and in particular enjoyed the view of his “beloved ocean” from his condominium. Walter loved learning, traveling and conversation, especially about current events and politics. He was artistic and enjoyed singing, playing the harmonica and accordion, both of which were self taught.

He will be loved and remembered by all of those who knew him.

A memorial service will be 11:30 AM Friday, January 2, 2009 at Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service.

Contributions in his memory can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Online condolences may be sent www.wilmingtonburialandcremation.com

Wilmington Burial and Cremation Service, 1535 S 41st Street, Wilmington, NC 28403 910.791.9099


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  • January 01, 2009
    Werner Heiz, PHD says:
    As God is full of Grace amd Love, He may accept Walter with joy.

  • December 29, 2008
    Marla Hopkins says:
    So sorry for your loss. Love to you and your family.

  • December 30, 2008
    Antonius Kosinda says:
    Our deepest symphathies for the Eppelin family. We're so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family. Antonius & Julie Kosinda

  • December 28, 2008
    Charles F. Bell says:
    Mr. Eppelin will be missed in Carolina Beach.

  • December 29, 2008
    Michael Waldrep says:
    My deepest sympathies to the Eppelin family.