First of all, my condolenxes to Family and Friends of Walter. Late as this is.
We grew up together in our teen years in a place called Earlstown - a place of loosly gathered homes - just south of Lennoxville, QC. Us boys attended the 'Swallow school of culture' where we learned about mechanics, how to rebuild an engine and how to cuss proficiently. Attending and graduating from Galt, as well. Earlstown 'a place' where I also fell in love with motorcycles, owning my first of 22 in 1970. Me being 3 years junior to Walter. So I sure get his love of 'bikes' and love of the road. He drove transport trucks and I ended up driving (running) trains.
We all had a special bond back then - growing up in that small collection of homes.
It was good times and even though we all moved on in our late teens - excet Keith he still lives there - Walter (Wally to me back then) was a good friend and neighbour. Memories of many times at Swallow's garage - Wally taught me to ride the Whizzer age 14 - really a bicycle with a motor - coming down off the high embankment and be fearless about it - and I was. He'd laugh when I made it down at near full speed. Wally already had a BSA 500 back then as I remember. His dad wasn't impressed.
Great memories and good times. Lost track of everyone over the years - but good friends were always on my mind. His soul has now left his corporeal being and back from whence it came. I am thankful he was my friend - tomorrow on my motorcycle ride I will invite him along.
Best Regards to Family
Russ & Corrine Hoas
Limoges, ON (Ottawa).
