Walter Walt Howard Wieland

Walter "Walt" Howard Wieland, 70, went home to be with the Lord on March 1, 2009, after suffering a stroke.Walter was born on Feb. 15, 1939 in Los Angeles, Calif., to Richard and Elsie Wieland, years after their move from Germany to America.Walter was raised in Berkeley, Calif. and attending the El Cerrito high school and graduating from San Jose State University. Walter obtained degrees in both electrical and civil engineering. Upon graduation, Walter enlisted in the Air Force, and was stationed at Bowling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., Texas, and various places during his years of service.After completing his service duties, Walter began his career with the United States Forest Service, residing in Eureka, Calif. Walters expertise included the designing of several buildings, bridges, roads and other projects. Walter assisted the Forest Service in controlling several forest fires throughout the state over the years, and playing the role of Smokey the Bear for local parades and events. While staying with his career in the forest service, Walter lived in various locations in California, lastly Corning for 18 years before relocating to Conway in 1993.Walters love of the outdoors led to many hiking trips with his family as well as camping and traveling to the National parks. He was a member of the Nature Friends and participated in their activities. He enjoyed the summer vacations at his familys cabin in Tahoe, Calif. Walters hobbies were photography and his model trains, which included family heirlooms and pieces that he collected over the years. Walter loved the Lord and served in the church for the majority of his life. Walter participated in the Awana program at his churches, serving as leader and commander.Walter married his wife Sharon in 1971, and together raised their three children. Walter enjoyed his family, attending every sporting or school event. Walter was thrilled when he became a grandpa at 51, spending as much time as possible with all four of his grandchildren.Walter is survived by his wife Sharon Wieland, of Conway; his children, Ruth Morrow, Lisa and her husband, Michael Wedge, and James Wieland and his fiance, Leah Shipps, and four grandchildren all of Conway. He is also survived by his sister Louise Beasley, of Shingle Springs, Calif., and several nieces and nephews.Services will include visiting hours Thursday night, March 5, at Furber and White Funeral Home in North Conway from 6 to 8 p.m., and a Memorial Service that will be held on Friday, March 6, at 11 a.m. at Valley Christian Church on East Conway Road.In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to Garys House, 97 State Street, Portland, ME, 04101.