Walter Drake Massey, 82
Capt. Walter Drake Massey USAF (Ret) passed away quietly on April 5, 2020, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish, Montana, at the age of 82.
Born to LtCdr Lance Edward “LEM” Massey USN and Marjorie (Drake) Massey on Dec. 14, 1937 in Long Beach, California. Walter’s father LEM was killed in the Battle of Midway 1942. For his fathers heroic actions the Navy named the Destroyer USS Massey; Walter’s favorite cap was his DD-778 which he wore often and proudly to honor the father he barely knew. Following his brother, Walter graduated Severn School in 1957. His military career path was lifelong in service to the U.S. Air Force. In 1964, he married Penelope Thompson (deceased 1980); they had one daughter, Cynthia Louise. Walter was highly commended and well decorated for his honorable service to the USAF, retiring as Captain in 1985; he continued his career in civil service. Walter was devoted to the military and most especially to his daughter Cyndy, even more so after he was widowed in 1980.
Walter had a lifetime love of tinkering on numerous cars and boats resulting in many stylish vehicles and vessels over the years. Walter is probably best known for his big soft-hearted love of all animals, especially canines ... in particular Basset Hounds! And you thought Cyndy was spoiled...
Walter is survived by his daughter Cyndy Massey Stanley; his brother Cdr Lance B. Massey USN (Ret) and wife Judith Massey; his nephew Capt Lance E. Massey II USN (Ret) and wife Julie Massey-their children Jack, Brad and Alina; his niece Barbara Massey; his niece Anne Kumer Franos; his former son-in-law aka the “son he never had” William Lee Stanley; and few devoted loving friends.
His daughter Cyndy, ever grateful, was by his side during his transition. Family and friends would like to offer huge heartfelt thanks to the physicians, nurses and all support staff at North Valley Hospital for their compassionate care and loving kindness through his final hours as well as recent years.
At Walter’s request, no formal service will be held. At Cyndy’s request, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite animal rescue group in his name.