Walter Marvin Paris, Sr.

Walter Marvin Paris, Sr., age 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, May 18, 2026.

Walt served on the Regimental Combat Team in the United States Army. He was stationed in Germany before becoming a Green Beret. After his military service, Walt worked in manufacturing and later at age 57, went back to college. He earned an associate's degree in Criminal Justice, graduating Magna Cum Laude, before becoming a corrections officer.

Walt was beloved by all he came in contact with and was know for his quick wit, his gentle demeanor and his artistic bent. He combined all of these with his personalized burned wood plaques that he often gave as gifts.

He was an avid outdoorsman, a trait that was acquired from his parents that he then passed down to his children and grandchildren.

Walt and his wife Lena lived in Southfield, MI and were seasonal residents of Mio since 1977. They moved to Mio permanently in 2014 after Walt's retirement, and remained very much engaged with friends and family in other locations. Their door was always open and they were never too busy for others.

Walt is survived by his children, Colleen (Mike, deceased) Brinkman, Maureen (Darryl) Watson, Hugh (Laurie) Charteris, Philip (Wendy, deceased) Charteris, and Wally (Tatia) Paris, Jr., 15 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Lena Paris, brother, Tom Paris, and sister, Virginia Ruchala.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church in Mio, MI on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM with Reverend Santiago Hoyumpa officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Our Lady of the Woods Shrine at St. Mary Catholic Church, 100 Deyarmond St., Mio, MI 48647.

Arrangements by Lashley Funeral Home, Mio, MI.