Walter P. Pircher

Walter P. Pircher, 93, of Peoria formerly of Chicago and Clearwater, FL passed away peacefully at 4:55am on Wednesday, October 9, 2013 at his home surrounded by his family. Walt was born on May 28, 1920 in Marling, Italy to Rose Pircher. In 1936 he immigrated to the United States and two years later at the age of 18 he enlisted with the United States Army. He served throughout WWII as a member of the 5th Division under General George Patton where he proudly aided in the liberation of Europe. He was a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. In the 1970's he left Chicago and his conventional job to move to Clearwater, FL where he was able to turn his longtime love of fishing into a career. In Clearwater he was known as "Captain Walt" the owner and operator of "The Lucky Lady" a successful deep-sea fishing boat in the Gulf of Mexico. He was a private pilot and enjoyed flying and taking his family for many memorable rides. In 1953 he married Doris Decker and she survives. Also surviving are two daughters Kay (Greg) Daniel and Lizabeth (Reggie) Beemer one granddaughter Angela and grandson Jonathan and great grandsons Bradyn, Dylan, Linden and Carter as well as many nieces and nephews. His mother and one brother Frank preceded him in death. Cremation rites have been accorded. A private memorial service is planned for a later date.