Notes:

Walter L. Ganshaw, age 88, of Wilson, entered into rest on Friday, February 12, 2010 in the family homestead on the Cambria-Wilson Road, Wilson. Born on Sept. 7, 1921, he was the son of the late Herman and Rose (Koeppen) Ganshaw and the 10th in their family of 12 children. Walter graduated from Wilson High School in 1938. When he joined the 4-H in its second year at the Wilson District 13 Schoolhouse, he had no idea it would afford him the opportunity to attend college. A $150 scholarship won by Walt for his 4-H record of achievement proved to be one of the most important events in his life. The scholarship not only prompted him to go to Cornell University in Ithaca, but also resulted in his career and passion as a 4-H executive dedicated to 4-H youth work. Once at college, he worked his way through by serving as a counterman in a cafeteria. He spent summers working as an assistant in the 4-H and on the family farm. In 1966, Walt was one of six 4-H Agents in the U.S. to receive a National "Distinguished Service Award." He was recognized for developing one of the state's outstanding county programs and his special efforts to grow the 4-H program in urban centers. Walt earned a Master's Degree from Michigan State University. Later in life, he enjoyed a second career at his friend, Don Luff's greenhouses.Walt was a lifelong member of North Ridge United Methodist Church. He was a charter member of the Wilson Conservation Club. He also enjoyed membership in the Wilson Fire Company, the Wilson Historical Society, American Legion Post #531, and the Bargemen Barbershop Quartet. Walt's green thumb was evident in his lush gardens. He made weekly trips to the Clinton-Bailey Market in Buffalo to sell his produce through 2002. Walt's love of the outdoors literally proceeded him. He traveled in his pickup truck, the "Southern Tier Express," always looking forward to the next trip down the 219 and to his beloved hunting cabin. He celebrated patriotism. He enjoyed most sports (except the Yankees), fishing trips to the French River in Canada, bird watching, cooking and spending time with loved ones. Walter is survived by his brother, William Ganshaw of Cape Cod, MA and two sisters-in-law, Jackie and Elaine Ganshaw. Nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great-nieces and nephews will miss him dearly. He was predeceased by six brothers, Fred, Herman, John, Harold, Ernest and Kelly; and four sisters, Anabell Freatman, Bertha Burns, Florence Jacobs and Lorena McDonough. Friends may call at Hamilton and Clark, Inc., Funeral Home, 270 Young Street, Wilson, on Tuesday from 4-8 PM. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 17th at 10 AM in the North Ridge United Methodist Church, 3930 North Ridge Rd., Town of Cambria, with the Rev. J. Fay Cleveland officiating. Burial will follow in North Ridge Cemetery, Church Rd., Town of Cambria. Memorials may be made to North Ridge United Methodist Church, 3930 N. Ridge Rd., Lockport, NY 14094, the Niagara County 4-H Sponsors Committee, 4487 Lake Ave., Lockport, NY 14094, or the Wilson Historical Society, Lake St., Wilson, NY 14172.Visit www.legacy.com/lockportjournal for online guest register.
Published in the Greater Niagara Newspapers on 2/14/2010

Herman + KOEPPEN, Rose. [Group Sheet] [Family Chart]