Walter Simendinger

Walter E. Simendinger (1939-2024) Walter E. Simendinger, 85, of Wading River, NY, passed away peacefully in his sleep after a brief illness on Sunday, July 14 at Acadia Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Riverhead, NY.

Walter - affectionately known as "Wawa", "Wally" or "Walt" - was born in Queens, NY in 1939 to Edmund and Virginia Simendinger. After graduating from Sewanhaka High School in 1957 he went to work for MV Motors as a mechanic, but quickly left to found Foreign Cars of Suffolk, the first of his many forays into business ownership which included residential and commercial real estate, a travel agency, yacht sales and two additional car dealerships.

Walt was also passionate about boats, cars and airplanes. He brought home many awards, racing Alfa Romeos with IMSA at Lime Rock and Bridgehampton, and sailing his Tartan 10 "Smoke 'Em" in yacht races all over Long Island, including the prestigious and challenging Around Long Island Regatta. When not competing, he spent endless summer days cruising with his family on one of his many yachts, going as far north as Grand Manaan Island in Canada and as far south as the Tobago Cays. As a licensed and accomplished pilot, he enjoyed traversing the country in his later years with his wife in their Cessna 336 and Long E-Z.

Wally also had a deep appreciation and fondness for the simpler things in life: spending quality time with his family, cooking lavish weekend meals, taking his Labradors to the beach and eating hot fudge sundaes. He always carried a mischievous glint in his eye and a big smile that reflected his infectious zest for life. It was his wish for everyone that they take chances and pursue their dreams, and he often supported people in their journeys.

Walter is survived by his beloved wife of 41 years, Jean Simendinger; daughters, Donna Simendinger (George) and Lisa Gizzi (Shane); stepson, Ken Flagg (Penelope); and grandson, Ole Gunnar Gizzi. He also leaves his loyal dog, Sophy, who he loved very, very much

. A service to celebrate Walt’s life will be held at Wading River Congregational Church (2057 N Country Rd, Wading River, NY 11792) on Sunday, September 15th from 2-5pm. His family invites friends and those whose lives were touched by Walt to join them in remembering a man whose joyful spirit and loving presence enriched their lives profoundly.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Walter's name to Labs4Rescue (www.labs4rescue.com). 

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