Walter Lewis Rice

Walter Lewis Rice passed away suddenly on February 23rd, 2026 at the age of 77 in the Great War Memorial Hospital in Perth, Ontario.

Born on January 15th, 1949 in Sydney Mines, Walter was the beloved son of Albert and Irene (Butts) Rice. He grew up in Sydney Mines and was known for his kind heart, down to earth nature and wonderful sense of humour, and also for the endearing love he held for his family and his pets.

Walter will be deeply missed by his loving family, children Shawna Neil, Denise (Todd), Stephen (Rachel), and Michelle (Jason), grandchildren Christopher, Taryn and Thomas, Devon, Johnathan (Glenda), Rebecca (William), Jack, Ashley, Kayla, and also great grandchildren Elias, Kristine, Leah and Aubrey Mae.

Also left to mourn are his siblings, Bud (Sandra) Rice, Lily (Rick) Tomanek, Dianne Rice-MacPherson, Ester (Steve) Woods, Gale (Roy) Williams, Rubyann (Denis) Filion, Darlene (Steve) Haggett and sister in law Vonda (Read) Rice. He was predeceased by his loving wife Colleen (MacDonald) Rice, brother Albert Rice Jr., and parents Albert and Irene (Butts) Rice.

Walter joined the Royal Canadian Air Force at age 20, and remained there until his retirement in 1999. He served in Cold Lake AB and Barrington NS., before his peacekeeping posting in Cypress in the 1970s. Walter then continued his service years in Lahr, Germany, Sydney NS, Ottawa Ont., then on to his last posting at CFB Greenwood, NS., close to where put down roots in Waterville, NS where he lived until moving to Ontario to live with his son Stephen and family 6 months ago.

Throughout his life, Walter loved outdoor pursuits, including hunting and especially fishing. He was also an avid, successful gardener who enjoyed his flower and vegetable patches. Also, he enjoyed watching the birds outside, especially the hummingbirds that frequented his feeders.

He always will be remembered for his straightforward, kind manner and infectious laugh.

Cremation has taken place and a private celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Walter’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him as the warm and thoughtful person that he was.