Walter Stirling Chamberlain

Walter Stirling Chamberlain, age 93, died peacefully Thursday, May 26, 2016. He was born December 14, 1922 to Mary Glass Chamberlain and Walter Samuel Chamberlain in Manor, Texas. Walter and his sister Margaret grew up on the family farm near Manor surrounded by extended family on neighboring land. He was home schooled until Margaret was old enough to attend school with him. At that time, the family purchased a horse for their transportation, and the sister and brother rode double into town to school. Walter continued to attend Manor schools through high school.

Following high school, Walter joined the US Army to help our efforts in World War II. Probably because of his rural roots, he was an excellent shot and became not only a gunner, but a gunner instructor. He was injured when a disabled plane crashed over him on base.

On Christmas day, 1946, Walter married the love of his life, Lucile Dorsett. With her by his side, he entered the Texas banking industry, originally with the Austin National Bank. Drawing upon his military experience, Walter became the bank's aviation lending expert. His keen sense of character helped him recognize potential new businesses applying for loans, and he was instrumental in helping innumerable businesses begin and grow in Austin. Many of these clients became lifelong friends. While the bank underwent several mergers, Walter remained loyal and retired as a Senior Vice President of Bank of America.

As their two sons, Don and Ed grew up, Cile and Walter made close friends in the community. They were active members of Tarrytown Baptist Church and later, Hyde Park Baptist. Together with close friends, they dined and danced at the Austin Club. They especially loved being members of a Square Dancing group for a number of years.

Remaining true to his Manor heritage, Walter remained active in the cattle business all of his life. He was a lifetime member of the Red Brangus Association of America and was instrumental in working to develop and improve the breed.

Walter was also active civically in growing Austin. He served twice as a Foreman of the Grand Jury, was a Mason, and served on the Austin City Planning Board. He also was a member of the Austin Kidney Foundation board.

Walter is survived by his wife of 69 years, Lucile Dorsett Chamberlain; his two sons and their wives, Don and Betsy Chamberlain and Ed and Liz Chamberlain; and seven grandchildren, Douglas, Patrick, Thomas, Meg, Jared, Morgan and Michelle. He was also blessed by four great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM, Thursday June 2, at Austin Memorial Park Cemetery. A memorial service will follow at 11:00 AM in the Chapel at Hyde Park Baptist Church.

Walter was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and good friend. He will be greatly missed, but his family knows he is home safely and peacefully now.