Bill was born April 12, 1943, in Castalia, Iowa to Karl and Minerva Walter. He spent his earliest years in Postville, Iowa, where he attended Postville public schools through the 8th grade. He moved to Decorah and attended Decorah High School, where he met his future wife Carolyn Tieskotter, also of Decorah. They graduated together with the Decorah High School Class of 1961. Bill and Carolyn were married in 1964 while Bill was attending the University of Iowa, majoring in business and instrumental music. He was a proud member of the University of Iowa marching and symphony band, where he played the tuba. After leaving Iowa City in 1974, Bill became a sales representative for Jockey International and was located in Warron, Ohio and later Omaha, Nebraska. In 1978, Bill moved to Grinnell and opened a men's clothing store, Bill's Red Hanger. While in business, Bill became an expert in tux rental and tailoring. He later opened Bill's Tailor Shop. To Bill, everyday was a gift; an opportunity to make someone's life better in any way. He enjoyed friends, woodworking, golf, and all kinds of music. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family. Twelve years ago, Bill had the opportunity to experience the shores of North Carolina and fell in love with the area. Since then, he and his family have made the beach their yearly vacation spot, making many joyous memories along the way. Bill is survived by his wife Carolyn of Grinnell; his two daughters, Traci Walter of Grinnell and Kelli (Darrin) Day of Davenport, Iowa; 3 granddaughters; his sister Maureen Lein of Fairfield, Ohio; and several nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Wayne Walter. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Grinnell High School Music Department and sent in care of the Smith Funeral Home.