Walter Vaden Coleman, 94, of Buena Vista, died peacefully at home Sunday, December 12, 2021.
Born February 2, 1927 to the late Edmond D. and Mamie Sorrells Coleman, he was the youngest of six children and the last surviving sibling to his brothers, Joe, Cubby, Bill and Mack, and his sister, Della.
He was also preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Coleman, his daughter, Felicia Matheny, son-in-law, Edward Matheny, and many other special angels.
Walter joined the United States Army 1281st Combat Engineers at 18 years old and spent 16 months in the Philippines during World War II. He was so honored to serve his country.
In the years following the war, he married the one, true love of his life and welcomed a son, Steve, and a daughter, Felicia.
In 1953, he opened The Triangle Cafe, where people would come from near and far for a Walter Coleman chili dog and a cold drink. He worked tirelessly, from sun up until sun down, with few days off. He never believed in doing a job halfway. After 36 years, he retired from the restaurant and began working for Buena Vista City Public Schools, where he retired after 20 years, at the age of 83.
He was a member of the Buena Vista Presbyterian Church and a proud lifetime member of the Buena Vista Fire Department. He belonged to the American Legion Post 126 for over 60 years. Walter was an avid sports fan, who remained loyal to the Yankees and Redskins, even when they broke his heart. The Blues, however, were always his favorite. He thoroughly enjoyed following his grandchildren all over the map for games of every kind, where he enjoyed heckling sub-par officials and yelling "Go Blue!"
Every year he would grow the best garden with the tastiest tomatoes to share with anyone who stopped by for a visit. He never met a stranger and he loved everyone like family. He was a true treasure.
Left to cherish his memory are his son, Steve Coleman and daughter-in-law, Suzanne; four grandchildren, Carrie Claytor (Cory), David Coleman (Elizabeth), Lindsey Fitzgerald (Scott), and Abby Rowsey (John); his eight great-grandchildren, Zachary, Katie, Riley, Anna, Vaden, Tinsley, Bailey and Ryland; extended family members, friends, and special caregiver, Missy Noel.
A celebration of life is planned for a later date, but the family will welcome visitors at Walter's home Wednesday evening, December 15.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Rockbridge Area Hospice or The Felicia C. Matheny Athletic Booster Scholarship Fund.
Arrangements are being handled by Bolling, Grose, & Lotts Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
