Walter T. Cannon (March 28, 1945-December 17, 2024)

Walter Cannon, affectionately known as "Butch" and "Uncle Walt" to both his family and friends, passed away on December 17, 2024. He was 79. Walter was born and raised in Atlantic City, graduating from Atlantic City High School in 1963. One year later, he enlisted in the Marines, serving until 1968. During that time, Walter served in Vietnam, earning both the Vietnam Service Medal with Three Stars and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, as well as numerous other medals and commendations.
Upon his return home, he married Donna Ford, with whom he went to the ACHS Senior Prom in 1967 (upon his sister Patricia's request). They lived in Atlantic City and later, Pleasantville. After adopting their daughter Denise in 1982, Walt and Donna moved to Millville, NJ, where they were married for 50 years until Donna's passing in 2019.
For over twenty years, Walter also served as a Technical Sergeant in the 177th Fighter Wing unit of the Air National Guard in Pomona, NJ, where he made many lifelong friends. After his retirement in 1998, he worked as a maintenance and grounds person for the Buena Board of Education.
Walter loved fishing on his boat, the "Never Satisfied," with his best friend, his brother-in-law Chas. He enjoyed a good road trip, especially if it meant stopping at a diner for breakfast (his favorite meal). He was an avid football fan, spending most of his years rooting for the Miami Dolphins before deciding Andy Reid's Kansas City team was less frustrating to watch.
Walter was preceded in death by his loving wife, Donna and his sister, Patricia. He is survived by his daughter, Denise (Jersey City, NJ); sister, Ellen Gilmore (Clermont, FL); brother, Ed Cannon (Ann) of Charlotte, NC; and sister, Joanne DiStefano (Vince) of Jacksonville, FL.
A memorial service for Walter will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Walter's name to the American Lung Association, Common Defense, and VoteVets.