Walter J. Henriksen Jr., 65, of Mt. Upton, passed away Friday, March 22, 2013 at AO Fox Hospital in Oneonta.
He was born March 20, 1948, son of the late Walter J. and Lillian Koster Henriksen in Mineola.
Upon graduation from high school, Walt enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. He was a trained rifleman and was stationed in Vietnam. On April 5, 1969, Walt was wounded and permanently disabled in the line of duty. He was awarded the Purple Heart, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal (with device), Rifle Marksman Qualification Badge and the Good Conduct Medal for his service and sacrifice for our country.
Walter was a devoted member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Post #85, serving as President for sixteen years. He was Post Commander and very active with the Disabled American Veterans Oneonta Post #200. Walt was also a member of the Oneonta VFW Post #1206, the Mt. Upton American Legion, the Marine Corp League and the Paralyzed Veterans.
Walter dedicated his time and experience to support veterans organizations to make life a little better for other veterans. His presence will be greatly missed by his many friends and family.
Walter is survived by his devoted wife, Valerie (Robinson) Henriksen, Mt. Upton; his daughter and son-in-law, Melinda and Roger Beers, Mt. Upton; four grandchildren, Walter Eugene, Angela, Jacqueline and Roger Beers Jr.; two sisters and brother-in-laws, Nancy and Walter Bloor, Tenn., and Caroline and Richard Jankowski, Oxford; a brother and sister-in-law, Chuck and Gloria Henriksen, Mt. Upton; four brothers-in-law, Keith, Tommy, Alan and Dennis Robinson and their families; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Walter was also predeceased by his brother-in-law, James Robinson.
Friends may call from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, 2013 at C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St., Sidney. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27 in the Funeral Chapel. Rev. Peggi Eller and Rev. Mary Ann Linder will co-officiate.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Disabled American Veterans or the Vietnam Veterans of America at 279 Chestnut St., Oneonta, NY 13820.
Condolences and memories may be sent online to www.landersfh.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St., Sidney.