Walter "Wes" Wathey

Walter W. Wathey (“Wes”) 98 of Surprise, Arizona and formerly of Woodbury, NY died peacefully in his sleep surrounded by his family on September 25, 2022. Born in Brooklyn, NY. He is survived by his wife Joan (nee Catena) of 72 years and sons Wes ( Jan ) of South Huntington, NY , Scott of Surprise, AZ and Drew ( predeceased by daughter-in- law Bernadette Dede Wathey) of Phoenix, AZ Grandchildren Christopher ( Caroline), Kimberly, Kevin and Lauren. Great Grandchildren Reese and Campbell as well as many nieces and nephews. Taught his three sons a love for all sports especially baseball. A passionate Brooklyn Dodger fan, his knowledge of New York baseball history and trivia was seldom matched. Loved all his grandchildren culminating each Summer with trips to Disneyland. Served as the Principal of The Wheatley School from 1961-1979. Worked as the Director of Institutional Studies at Arizona State University from 1984-1997. Wes was a proud World War II Veteran who served during the D Day invasion at Normandy earning two Purple Hearts. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Masters degrees in Education from New York University. While at Wheatley he matriculated at Columbia University and the Doctoral program in Education. He was admired and loved by the many graduates of The Wheatley School during his tenure. “ He was completely immersed in all aspects of Wheatley, from participating in the school’s theater productions to attending the many Wheatley Wildcat sporting events each year” , according to his son Wes. “He would invariably meet Wheatley graduates in his travels and was very proud that they all would have positive comments about their Wheatley experience.” Upon his retirement in 1979 a Wheatley High School leadership award was established in his name.