Walter Daniel Shimel, Jr., age 75 of Mendon, MI, passed away on Saturday, June 27, 2026 at Beacon Kalamazoo Hospital following a brief illness. He was born on July 30, 1950 in Cadillac, MI the son of Walter Shimel, Sr. and Helen Huston. Walter attended Loy Norrix High School and was part of the 1968 graduating class. On November 27, 1993, he would marry Betty Fearnow. For over 50 years, Walter re-modeled and re-constructed many homes; Walts Home Improvement will have a lasting impression in St. Joseph County and the surrounding areas for many years to come.

His love of woodworking and skill has lasting memories for many; making boats for the annual boat float at the Mendon Riverfest, building airplanes for auction at the VFW Hall in Colon, and model trains and jewelry boxes for his family. Walter had the ability to see a photo, and build it, an impressive talent. He looked forward to his fishing and hunting trips, traveling from Ohio all the way to Canada for his next bluegill catch. He had a soft spot in his heart for dogs, especially German Shepherds and Dobermans. Walter would often be seen outside, tending to his large garden, which included every fruit and vegetable growable in the state of Michigan. He liked listening to classic rock n’ roll and country, watching American Pickers, and cheering on collegiate wrestlers and football players wearing the maize and blue. For a brief stint, Walter was a reserve in the St. Joseph County Sherif’s Department – even received a Deputy Dog Cake from his buddies. For those closest to him, they knew Walter being serious could be a tough task. Walter loved to tease his friends and family on the regular, pulling fast one’s on them (a certain case of paw prints and a tree stand comes to mind).

Walter is survived by his wife of 32 years, Betty Shimel; three children; Walt Shimel, III, Carrie (Ted) Green, and Scott (Lisa) Shimel; six grandchildren; Tristen (Sarah) Shimel, Cody Shimel, Josh Green, Nick Green, Brianna Shimel, and Hailey Shimel; one great-grandson; Daniel Shimel; one brother; David Shimel; one sister; Sharon Shaffer; and many extended family and friends. He was preceded in passing by his parents, Walter Sr. and Helen Shimel; and his sister, Ella Truax.

Visitation for Walter will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026 from 4pm until 7pm at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main St., Mendon, MI 49072). Following visitation, cremation will be conducted with an interment at Dutton Cemetery at a later date. Condolences and memories may be expressed to his family at eickhofffuneralhome.com