A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 18th, 2024, at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. The burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery with military honors by the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Walter was born on May 18, 1933, in Dubuque, the son of Elmer and Ruth (Gantenbein) Hedrick. He graduated from Senior High School in 1951 followed by one year at the University of Dubuque. Walter served in the United States Navy Reserves where he received an honorable discharge.

He married Edna J. Witte on October 2, 1954, in Dubuque, IA. Walter was employed by Caradco for 25 years followed by the Adams Co. and Dubuque Sash and Door.

He was a member of the UKC Kennel Club and the Willowa Beagle Club (Wisconsin).

Walters greatest joy was spending time with his son, Kevin, whether it be hunting, fishing or baseball. His hunting included racoon, rabbit, deer, and turkey. Also, a lifetime of fishing on the river, along with all his friends from hunting and fishing. He was also a baseball fan, coaching the Hawks in independent league and Dubuque Merchants semi-pro.

Surviving is his son Kevin (Joan) Hedrick, brother Clifford Hedrick of Plano, TX, sisters-in-law Charlotte Vanderbilt and Mabel Witte both of Dubuque, along with numerous nieces, nephews and families.

Walter was preceded in death by his wife Edna, parents Elmer and Ruth Hedrick, in-laws Carl and Edna Witte, sisters-in-law Frieda (Hank) Suverkrup and Barbara Hedrick, brothers-in-law Robert Witte and Russ Vanderbilt and nephew Michael Vanderbilt.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and Dubuque County Baseball Hall of Fame.

Funeral arrangement under the care of
Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory

Updated by : Clifford E. Hedrick