Walter William Meinert passed away peacefully on October 30, 2025, in his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the age of 94. Born on October 21, 1931, to Mary Edney and Ernest Meinert, Walter lived a life marked by dedication, curiosity, and quiet strength.
He is lovingly remembered by his three children: Lynne Meinert Kirsch (Guy), Blake Thomas Meinert, and Douglas Blaine Meinert. He also leaves behind his nephew David Gutter and niece Debbie Gutter.
Walter graduated from Union High School in Grand Rapids in 1949. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1954 as a meteorologist during the Korean War, followed by serving at the Severe Weather Center and tornado early warning system at Tinker AFB in Oklahoma City, OK. Following his discharge from the Air Force, he attended Michigan State University, where he studied hydrology and graduated with a degree in Civil Engineering in 1958.
Walter built a distinguished career as a Hydrogeologist and Groundwater Engineer. He began his professional journey with Jones, Henry and Williams in Toledo, Ohio, before returning to Grand Rapids in 1967 to establish his own engineering firm. Walter developed water systems for multiple municipalities throughout Michigan and Ohio during his career. In 1981, he joined Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr and Huber, where he served as a principal in the Environmental division, focusing on remediation of groundwater contamination.
Outside of work, Walter found joy in sailing, golfing, and aviation. A skilled aviator, he cherished the freedom and exhilaration of flight, often sharing his passion for airplanes with those around him.
A celebration of Walter’s life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Canine Companions https://canine.org/.
One Response
I worked with Walt and learned a lot from him. He was a great mentor for young geologist working in the environmental consulting industry.