Wesley Yorke Walters, a long-time resident of Indianapolis, IN and Sarasota, FL, passed away on August 7th, 2021, at the age of 86, in his hometown of Fairfield, Illinois. His recent battle with chronic health issues showed his courage in facing life challenges with an always joyful heart. Although he was called home, his joy and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to have known him.
Wes was born on December 27, 1934, in Fairfield, to Lawrence and Mary (O’Malley) Walters. He grew up and spent his high school years in Fairfield before attending the University of Illinois where he received his bachelor’s degree in microbiology. He married his high school sweetheart, Winona “Nonie” McBride, served his country as a proud member of the United States Army from 1955 to 1975. He found his lifelong career in microbiology with the Indianapolis based pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly. He was passionate about his work and was even asked to serve as part of a support team for Dr. Jonas Salk following his discovery of the first polio vaccine in 1955.
Nonie lost her battle with cancer in November 2003. They had an adventure filled marriage of 47 years, including a four-year re-location to Puerto Rico for his job with Eli Lilly. Wes is survived by his brother, James (Jimm) Walters, Jasper, IN; son Steven (Angela) Walters, 63, Aurora, IN; Nancy (Paul) Phipps, 60, Fishers, IN; and Sandra Schatzlein, 58, Indianapolis, IN. Wes and Nonie have seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
We will miss him and his sense of humor greatly. He loved putting a smile on everyone’s face by making sure they were welcome to share in his favorite seven course dinner (a hot dog and a six pack).
Per Wes’s request, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Friday, August 13th at the Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home in Fairfield, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org. Condolences can be made to the family at www.facebook.com/johnsonvaughnfuneralhome. The Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.