Paul Walther

Ernest “Paul” Walther was born on February 5, 1965 in Groton, Connecticut to Captain Arthur Ernest and Peggy Walther. Paul would mostly go to school in Anaheim, California and eventually would graduate from Stayton High School. He would eventually go to Oregon State University and receive a degree in Agriculture Science and Crop science.

After graduating from OSU, Paul would have many different lines of work, mostly in the agriculture industry and he would start his own consulting business in California as an agronomist. Eventually, he would move to Oregon where he would work with many farmers on problem solving when it came to their crops.

On May 13, 2000, he married Cathy Ann Elizabeth York, who would be the love of his life. They met while living in San Marcos, California. The two started as friends, but over time, their fondness for one another grew into a beautiful love story. The couple moved to Oregon in 1999 to be closer to Paul’s children. Cathy and Paul loved being out on the water boating and fishing and did so for as long as Cathy’s health would allow. Even though she was in constant pain, Cathy was determined to still live a full life within the limitations set for her by her body. She was an incredible cook and loved to provide delicious meals and treats to those she loved. Sadly, Cathy passed away in 2019 and Paul was left with a broken heart.

When not working, Paul enjoyed competitive shooting and would compete with his son, Cameron. Paul was a member of the Albany Rifle and Pistol Club (ARPC). He would also work on cars throughout his life, when he was in high school he would buy vehicles with his own money and rebuild them. Paul was also a Patriot, held religion close to his heart, and loved his family deeply.

For the last 22 years of his life, he lived in Salem, where he passed away at his home on February 12, 2023. Paul was preceded in death by his beloved Cathy Ann Walther; father, Captain Arthur E. Walther USN (Ret). He is survived by his mother Peggy; children, Cameron Walther and Cara Hardy; grandchildren, Leonna and Anny; sister, Jennifer Marlin.