Walter James Szajna's Obituary
Walter James Szajna, 82, passed away on Sunday, April 23, 2023, at Grey Stone Health & Rehabilitation Center, Fort Wayne with his family by his side. Born in New Kensington, PA, he was the son of the late Walter G. and Bessie (Kleinhans) Szajna. He retired from International Harvester/Navistar in 2001. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, New Haven. He was also a member of the Jack Brinker American Legion Post 409, Leo-Cedarville. He proudly served his country in the US Army. Walter enjoyed gardening, going to the lake, and taking care of his pets; Cash, Lil, Penny, and Little One. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family. They were the joy of his life. He is survived by his children, Wally (Laurie) Szajna and Michael Szajna both of Woodburn and Lisa (Guy) Woodward of Leo; sisters, Mary Lou (Kenneth) Herbst, of Saxonburg, PA, and Debbie (Nancy Smith) Szajna of Monroeville, PA; 6 grandchildren; and twelve great grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Anne (Palazzi) Szajna and brothers, Gilbert and Charles Szajna. Mass of Christian Burial is 11 a.m. Thursday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 943 Powers St., New Haven with calling one hour prior to service. Calling is also 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Harper’s Community Funeral Home, 740 State Road 930 E, New Haven with a vigil at 7:45 p.m. Burial in the church cemetery with military honors. Preferred memorials are to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church or Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana.
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