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Obituary of Walter F Lane
Walter F. Lane, 98, of Burlington, a world traveler and World War II Veteran, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 30, 2025.
Walter was born in Somerville, the only son of Timothy and Anastasia Lane. He grew up in Somerville, just a short distance from Porter Square, and was a graduate of Somerville High School. After high school, Walter enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Valley Forge during World War II. The Valley Forge was part of the Pacific Fleet, stationed in San Diego, California. As a member of the crew, Walter circumnavigated the globe. Starting from San Diego, the ship made stops in Pearl Harbor, Australia, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, the Persian Gulf, Saudi Arabia, traversed the Suez Canal, and visited Norway, England, and New York before passing through the Panama Canal and returning to San Diego. It was a remarkable adventure, representing the United States and Navy, and Walter was proud to be a part of the Valley Forge crew.
Walter was awarded the World War II Victory Medal and remained in contact with his fellow crew members, attending reunions over the years. After the Valley Forge was decommissioned, Walter was given a plank from its flight deck, which he proudly displayed in his home.
Following his military service, Walter worked for the Federal Government as a Contract Administrator, overseeing projects after contracts were awarded. He monitored manufacturing locations such as Raytheon and contributed to significant projects, including the Patriot Missile program and agricultural initiatives. Walter retired after 40 years of dedicated service.
Walter was deeply involved in his community and lived life to the fullest. He settled in Burlington in 1971 and became an active member of the American Legion in Burlington and the Knights of Columbus in Charlestown, Wilmington, and later Burlington. He attended meetings, fundraisers, charitable events, and socials with great enthusiasm. In his retirement, he was a regular participant at the Burlington Council on Aging, volunteering and reconnecting with both old and new friends. Although he never sought leadership positions, Walter loved supporting others and helping things get done. He was also a coach for many years in the Burlington Little League.
Walter’s love of travel, sparked by his Navy adventures, stayed with him throughout his life. He and his wife, Rosemarie, spent countless vacations together, often planning trips to places near and far. Walter meticulously researched destinations, created detailed budgets, and crafted extraordinary itineraries. He traveled extensively, visiting 47 countries (32 of them at least twice) and six of the seven continents. He spent several summers in Ireland, winters in Florida, took numerous cruises, and accumulated many airline miles. It’s safe to say that Walter’s "bucket list" was empty!
Above all, Walter was devoted to his family. He married his beloved wife, Rosemarie (Sullivan), in 1961, and together they enjoyed a life full of love and adventure. Walter was a proud father to two wonderful sons, Timothy Lane and his wife Laura of Norwood, and Patrick Lane and his wife Michelle of Roslindale. He cherished being "FAFA" to his three grandchildren, Taylor, Ryan, and Jack. Known for his witty sayings like, "Only the tough get old," and "If you didn’t have a good time, it’s your own fault," Walter was an incredible role model, teaching the importance of family, hard work, and taking charge of one’s own life.
Walter’s life was extraordinary—he saw the world, contributed to his community, and built a loving family that will carry on his legacy.
He was predeceased by his wife Rosemarie in 2019. Walter is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Visiting hours will be held at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St., Burlington, on Monday, February 3, from 5 to 7 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Malachy Church in St. Veronica Parish, 99 Bedford Street, Burlington, on Tuesday, February 4, at 10 a.m. Services will conclude with military honors at Chestnut Hill Cemetery in Burlington.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Walter’s name to the Knights of Columbus Exceptional Children Fund, P.O. Box 25, Burlington, MA 01803.
For online guestbook and video tribute, please visit www.sullivanfuneralhome.net.
Edward V. Sullivan
Funeral Home
43 Winn Street
Burlington, MA 01803
Ph: (781) 272-0050
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