Walter John Streicher

Walter John Streicher, Jr.

Entered into rest on December 27, 2011 after courageously battling heart and kidney disease.

Dearly loved husband of Anna, devoted father of Megan (James) Nichols, proud grandfather of John Nichols and cherished brother of the late James Streicher, Sr. Wally was born and raised in both Indiana and Ohio and possessed all the best Midwestern qualities: loyalty, patriotism, authenticity and humor. An alum of Elder High School and Xavier University, Wally actively supported both, especially Elder, where he endowed a scholarship named for his late beloved nephew, David Streicher. Wally enjoyed his Reds and Bengals and could talk sports endlessly. He also had a deep love of reading and called his enormous library filled of books, his “friends.” A scholar of World War II because his patriotism, Wally never let a serviceman pass him without thanking the person for his service. In 1967, he was promoted, and transferred from working in the 3M office in Cincinnati to their office in South San Francisco where he met his wife. They raised their family in Belmont. A member of St. Matthew’s Catholic Church in San Mateo since 1972, Wally served as an usher and a member of the parish finance council who oversaw the successful leasing of church property. He was also a member of the Nocturnal Adoration Society, the St. Vincent de Paul Society and St. John Vianney.

A lover of travel, Wally spent time in China, Japan, Western and Eastern Europe and the Caribbean. Wally made friends wherever he went, with an enviable ease and spirit. He loved getting to know his fellow voyagers, and made fast friendships which lasted decades, and continued childhood friendships that lasted until his death. He enjoyed visiting art museums with his family, and instilled a love of art in his daughter. He had a active social life and was fond of excellent restaurants and fine wine.

An orphan since the age of eighteen, Wally never dwelled on loss or regret and despite suffering from heart and kidney disease or over 20 years, he looked at the world with optimism and hope. A gentle and loving man, Wally often said it was his Catholic faith that helped him and the support of his wife, Anna, the love of his life, who selflessly took care of him throughout his many surgeries and hospital stays. His family and friends are comforted in the knowledge that he is no longer in pain.

A Memorial Mass is planned for January 21 at 10:30 am at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church, 1 Notre Dame Ave. San Mateo. In lieu of flowers, the family suggest a donation to the American Kidney Foundation or to the Walter J. Streicher, Jr. and the David Streicher Spirit of Elder Scholarship.

SNEIDER & SULLIVAN & O’CONNELL’S

FUNERAL HOME

(650) 343-1804