Walter LeRoy Treichel

Walter L. Treichel passed away surrounded by family on Thanksgivings Day, Thursday, November 26, 2020, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Walter LeRoy Treichel, son of Adolf and Alvina Treichel, was born in Missoula, Montana. He met Jane Fox and the two were wed in Firth, Germany. Walter, Jane, and the children spent time abroad where he was stationed. He was stationed in Europe, Africa, Iran, the Holy Land, Texas, Alaska, as well as the states.
Walt retired from the Army as a Staff Sergeant and earned many recognitions including two purple hearts while he saved his unit. After retirement he continued to work as work “kept one healthy and the mind sharp.” He worked in Saudi Arabia and that area for many years. Upon returning to the states he held a few jobs. One of his favorites was transporting vehicles for Demarois. Walt was an expert in learning languages quickly as to where he was stationed. He met Arafat and said, “He was nice to your face but can’t be trusted.” Walt was a Renaissance Man and would learn many things. He loved building his home with his family by his side. He enjoyed photography, gardening, history, woodworking, mechanic work, hunting, fishing, snow skiing, sand skiing, swimming along with NASCAR, music and Lawrence Welk. Walt and Jane loved to waltz and attended the military balls. Also, they attended Randy Travis’ first concert in Missoula and danced to every song.
Walt was a hero in many ways. If someone were in need he would help. He shoveled walks for people and helped with projects. Part of his garden went to Poverallo Center. Dad loved making his potato salad and banana bread to help in mourning. He also rescued pets and traveled them to the pet clinic in Spokane. Dad’s favorite motto was “one must bear a purpose in life and never retire. If you fall, pull up your boots and try, try again.”
Walt retired at 89. The last year of his life was spent mostly at the Huntsman Cancer Center with his daughter and son. He wanted the doctors to win so they could help others with his medical history. The staff loved his historical stories and his kind ways.
Walt is survived by daughter, Susan Treichel of Post Falls, ID; son, Mark (Kim) Treichel of Missoula, MT; many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is survived by his sister, Darlene (Wayne) Henderson of Idaho; nephews, Mike and Scott; nieces, Sophie (John); Cathy (Bob); sister-in-laws, Alice and Jean. He was preceded by his wife, Jane Treichel; brothers, Marlin and Ernie Treichel and brothers-in-law, Earl, George and Charles. Walt treasured his family very much and missed Jane greatly.
Thank you Dad, you will always be our hero, friend, story teller and sharer of wisdom.
We know your new journey will be free from pain. You never complained and remained strong. You are now free to explore God’s heaven and world. We will miss you.
A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, December 8, 2020 at the Fort Missoula Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Veterans, Huntsman Cancer Institute, Humane Society or the Poverello.