Walter W. Carl

Walter (Walt) William Carl, 86, passed away on December 29, 2023, at Carle Health Pekin Hospital. A testament to his humble and humorous nature, Walter wanted his obituary to consist of three short words: "Walt left today." But his legacy requires much more. Walt was the youngest of five, born on January 17, 1937, in Warren, Ohio to Gustav and Madeline (Musshafen) Carl Sr. He met his wife, Mary Ann Gleason, and they married on October 22, 1966, in Pekin, Illinois where he would spend the rest of his life. A hardworking, ambitious man, Walt served six years in the Air National Guard in Peoria before forging a career as a proud union carpenter. He touched countless lives through his work, owning both a trophy shop and a construction company, Walt Carl Builder, Inc., for many years. He was also an active and devoted member of the First United Methodist Church. He loved fishing with buddies in his early years, spending time with friends and family, and, above all, snacking on cookies keeping a jar around the house was a requirement. He loved to tinker with cars and could often be found taking them on the road for races and autocross events. A simple, practical man who didnt always show much emotion, those who knew Walt know he had a goofy side (and loved to dance!). Though he always worked hard and was known at times as a "careful Carl," he treasured his family, and simply sought peace when asked what he wanted for Christmas or birthdays, he often replied "peace." He lived a full life, loved his dogs Wesley and Dexter, and never failed to stand up for those he cared about. Despite losing much at the end of his life, he never lost his wit or charisma especially with the ladies in his life. In Mary Ann he found a partner for life, and she blessed him with four girls. Those close to him knew that "his girls," as he lovingly referred to them, were the true joy of his life. He will be dearly missed. Preceding Walt in death are his parents, his sister, Irene, and one of his closest friends, Rich Goodlick. Mary Ann says that the two have now reunited in Heaven when Walt arrived, Rich probably said something along the lines of "where in the hell have you been?" Walt is survived by his wife Mary Ann who selflessly loved and cared for him until the very end and four beautiful daughters: Diana (Glenn) Beccue of Normal, Amy Wilson of Wilmette, Lisa (Tony) Proctor of Peoria, and Mary Carl OConnor of Wapella. Walt is also survived by his brother, Gus (Marian) Carl, and sisters, Gert Nichols and Margie Fredrick; as well as many nieces and nephews. Walt was the grandfather of Alicia (Arnold) Hernandez; Adam (Kristen) Glenn Beccue; Taylor Scott Beccue; Abigail and Nicholas Wilson; Camryn "Cami" Proctor; Edward Bridges-OConnor; and Claudia and Ellie OConnor. He was the great grandfather of Makayla and Chase Grimes; Bella and Jack Beccue; and Leti, Mateo, and Andrs Hernandez. Walts visitation will take place from 1-2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory, and a celebration of his life will follow directly afterward. Pastor Heather Robertson will officiate. Inurnment will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens at a later date. In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the First Methodist Church, 1315 Court St., Pekin, IL 61554 or the Alzheimers Association, 614 W. Glen Ave., Peoria, IL 61614. Celebration of Life Wednesday, January 3, 2024 2:30 PM Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554 Visitation Wednesday, January 3, 2024 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554