Cyril Walrath

Cyril Charles Walrath, son of Cyril and Isabelle (Fricke) Walrath, was born November 18, 1919 in New Ulm, Minnesota, where he grew up and received his schooling. Following his graduation from New Ulm High School in 1937, he continued his education at Mankato Commercial College. In 1941, he enlisted in the United States Army/Air Force, where he served though out Europe until the end of the war. On June 20, 1944, he was united in marriage to Kathleen O'Malley in New Ulm. From this union five children were born. The family lived in New Ulm, where Chuck worked at J.C. Penny's until 1949, when they moved to Fairfax and Chuck worked for O'Malley and Schmelte Clothing Store. In 1952, Chuck moved his family to Mankato, where for the next 26 years he was employed by Matt J. Graif Clothing Store. Chuck semi-retired in 1977 and he and Kathleen moved to Sierra Vista, AZ, where they lived until 1995, when they returned to Albert Lea. Kathleen died on September 29, 1997. Chuck remained in Albert Lea until 2002, when he moved to Starbuck, where he has continued to live until the time of his death.



Chuck was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed watching sports on TV, especially the Minnesota Vikings, Twins and the Timber Wolves. He loved gardening, both flowers and vegetables. He also enjoyed playing cards and traveling after his retirement. He was an avid Morel Mushroom hunter.



Chuck died on Tuesday, September 12, 2006 at the Minnewaska Lutheran Home in Starbuck, having lived to reach the age of 86 years.



He is survived by two sons: Bruce (Wanda) Walrath of Waco, TX and Stephen (Mary Ann) Walrath of Alexandria; three daughters: Jean Zick of Scottsdale, AZ, Eileen (Steven) Larson of Starbuck and Susan (Lars) Kaehn of Albuquerque, NM; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one brother: Clifford Walrath of Sierra Vista, AZ and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents and one brother: Wayne Walrath.