Walter W. Kersting

Walter W. Kersting, 91 years of age, passed away on June 24, 2025, in his home. Walter was born on September 4, 1933, in Gelsenkirchen-Buer, Germany, to the late Heinrich and Elfriede Kersting. He was the youngest of their three children.

He was trained as a painter and went on to be a journeyman for over 40 years until his retirement. During his long career he was known for his skill, true talent, and showed great pride in his craft.

He emigrated to Canada sailing aboard the Arosa Sun and stayed for about a year. After learning English he continued his travels to Rockford, IL to visit an uncle.

Walter met Erika in Rockford through mutual friends, and they were married in 1959. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and ironically sent to Germany. He spent two years in enlistment and at that time their first bundle of joy was born in 1960. After returning to the states, they welcomed two more bundles of joy in 1962 and 1968.

Walter and Erika were founding members of the German Club, Gemütlichkeit (nka German Society of Rockford). The club was always a wonderful source of fun excursions, memorable Oktoberfests, and where true, lifelong friendships were made.

He was an avid reader, loved birdwatching and enjoyed nature in all its glory. His sense of adventure turned into memorable family trips spanning the Rocky Mountains, East coast, Northern coast of Wisconsin, Canada, and more. And we all looked forward to the numerous trips back to the homeland to spend time with loved ones.

Walter leaves to cherish his loving memory, wife, Erika of 66 years; children, Roy (Marcia) Kersting of Sparks, Nevada, Heide-Marie (Alvin) Goellner, and Annette (Mark) Mancuso of Dodgeville, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Nicole, Conrad (Andrea), Natalie, and Garrett; great-grandsons, Kai and Oliver; and a host of dear friends as well as several cousins in Germany. He is predeceased by his parents, Heinrich and Elfriede; brother, Günther; sister, Anneliese; and grandson, Erik Plaza.

We wish to give much gratitude to the team at Unity Hospice for their support, timeliness and being with us every step of the way. Special thanks to Morgan, Pam, Sue, Monica, Tess, Alyssa, Ryan, and Donna, plus the kind triage team.

A Memorial Service will be on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Saviors Lutheran Church, 3301 Corbridge Lane Rockford, IL 61107, with a visitation prior to the service starting at 10:00 a.m. Cremation rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Nicholas Conservatory at www.nicholasconservatory.com.