Chief Master Sergeant Walter Roskowski, 92, of O’Fallon, Ill., passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 26, 2024. A veteran of the Vietnam War, he was an Aircraft Maintenance Superintendent, 21st Tactical Air Support, Phan Rang Air Base, Republic of Vietnam, 1970-1971.
Chief Master Sgt. Roskowski was born to the late Walter and Anna (nee Yostrum) Roskowski on June 4, 1932, in Plymouth, Penn. He graduated from Lehman-Jackson High School in 1950, where he was the star quarterback. In 1951, Walter enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he was stationed to Chanute Air Force Base, Rantoul, Ill. and received his flight training. Chief Roskowski was a Flight Engineer during his career in the U.S. Air Force until his retirement in 1974, serving his country for 23 years. He was proud of his military service and honored to serve his country. After his retirement, he followed a new career path and took up upholstery. He would work out of a shed in his backyard until opening his business, Walt’s Upholstery, in O’Fallon, Ill.
Chief Roskowski was a brave and loyal soldier, as well as a loving father and grandfather. He met his wife, Shirley, while stationed at Chanute Air Force Base. They married August 10, 1952.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; son, Walter; grandson, John; parents, Walter and Anna; and sister, Rita.
He is survived by his children, Toni (John) Kimball of Caseyville, Ill.; Patricia Roskowski of O’Fallon, Ill.; Steven (Helen) Roskowski of Troy, Ill.; William (Tammy) Roskowski of Alabama; Bruce (Tina) Roskowski of O’Fallon, Ill.; Deborah (Kevin) Potter of Millersburg, Penn.; brother, Norman (Janie) Roskowski of Pittston, Penn.; twelve grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wreaths Across America at wreathsacrossamerica.org or to Patriot Guard Riders of Illinois.
Condolences may be shared with Walter’s family online at www.wfh-ofallon.com.
Visitation will be held 5–8 p.m., Sunday, November 17, 2024, at Wolfersberger Funeral Home. Procession will depart the funeral home at 10:45 a.m., Monday, November 18, 2024 for a Graveside Service at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, St. Louis, where military honors will be rendered.
