Walter (Walt) DeVillez
December 14, 1948 – August 14, 2025
Fenton, Missouri
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Walter (Walt) DeVillez, 76, of Fenton, Missouri, on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family. Walt was born on December 14, 1948, in Evansville, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Elsie DeVillez; his brother, Ralph DeVillez; and his sister, Barbara Dyer.
Walt is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Linda DeVillez, and their three children, Steve DeVillez, Shannon (Chris) Sweeney, and Jamie DeVillez. He was the proud and loving Papa to Sam, Sean, and Reid Sweeney. He is also survived by his brother, Robert DeVillez, and a large extended family of in-laws, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and countless friends who will miss him dearly.
Walt’s life was defined by his deep love for his family and the countless ways he showed his care and devotion. His warmth, generosity, and infectious sense of humor were the cornerstones of his character. Whether sharing a laugh with loved ones or lending a hand when needed, Walt’s spirit brightened every room he entered. His bond with his grandchildren was exceptional; he had an uncanny ability to make each one feel uniquely loved and understood.
Walt found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved family vacations, tending to his garden, and being a fixture at his grandchildren’s sporting events. Whether he was out on the golf course, taking spontaneous road trips, or fishing by the water, Walt’s sense of adventure and joy for life were ever-present. But it was in the backyard, surrounded by family and friends, where he truly felt at peace, always ready with a joke or a story that would keep everyone laughing.
Professionally, Walt enjoyed a distinguished career as a telecommunications engineer for over 50 years, working with Western Electric, AT&T, and Lucent Technologies. Known for his unwavering work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to his craft, he earned the respect of everyone he worked with. Beyond the office, Walt built lasting friendships with many of his colleagues, forging connections through softball, football, and bowling leagues, golf tournaments, float trips, picnics, and dances—memories that lasted a lifetime.
To our beloved husband, father, Papa, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, your presence will be deeply missed. Though our hearts are heavy, we take comfort in knowing you are at peace, free from worry, and surrounded by love in heaven.
Celebration of Life:
In honor of Walt’s love for golf and a good time with friends and family, a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 31, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Ballwin Golf Club Event Center (333 Holloway Rd, Ballwin, MO 63011). Memorial service begins at 1:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA) at www.lbda.org/donate or 912 Killian Hill Road SW, Suite 105, Lilburn, GA 30047.
Shannon if it wasn’t for your wonderful friendship with Sheri and marrying Kevin’s best friend we might not have met your great parents. Only God can orchestrate such “chance” meetings. We are grateful. so sorry for your loss and the rest of your family’s broken hearts. Your Mom and Dad did a wonderful job raising you!
Walt was a beloved colleague and friend and always so much fun. The obituary fully encompasses his life, his love for family and his devotion to them. He will be surely missed.
Linda, my deepest condolences. Walt was a true friend of mine since we were 6 yesterday old. Loved him like a brother and he loved me. True friends like Walt are a fortunate thing in one’s life. I will miss him a bunch.
Anything Barb and I can do to make this road easier to travel for you and your family, Please, just let us know.
Linda and family,
I am so sorry for your loss, we are praying for your family. I worked with Walt at AT&T. He was one of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and was a great friend. Every year we would exchange text messages around our birthdays since they were only a couple days apart. Please reach out if there is anything I can do to help.
We sincerely want to extend our heartfelt sorrow for Linda and her entire family. We pray the Lord is with you and comforts you at this time of need. With love and prayers, your neighbors,
Crystal,Matt, and Ian
I sincerely want to extend my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Walt was a pleasure to be around and always had some great jokes. He will be missed greatly. With big hugs and lots of love.
Walt and I worked at ATT together for a short time – but he left a big impression. Walt will be missed. The world has not seen many men as kind as he was. He did have a way of making everyone feed special. He nicknamed me cowgirl because I have horses (although I don’t ride Western). He was always willing to go out of his way to help. Heaven gained another angle.
Only our Lord knows the place My Amigo has within me. Throughout our Grade School & High School years we shared many a life experiences and joys. I do not know of anyone that knew Walt, that didn’t have a great respect and honest fondness for him. I as everyone else will truely miss his smile and the joy he brought. May you and his entire Family know how Blessed we all have been to know him. Rest in Peace my Amigo, you fought the good fight.
Linda and family,
My condolences for your loss.
I was fortunate to have worked with Walt at Western Electric for a number of years. He was highly respected by all for his friendly demeanor, kindness and honesty. He was “one of the good ones”, always ready to lend a hand if needed.
May he rest in peace.
Linda and family my deepest sympathies to you. I worked with Walt for many years at AT&T/Lucent. He was so kind and so hilarious, his wit always made me smile. After Lucent I went back to AT&T & moved to a new building, one day I walked out of the elevator and their stood Walt. I was so happy to see him but shocked because I thought he had retired from Lucent. Turns out he was now , working as a contractor for AT&T. It made my day to see him and on days that I was having a rough time, I just took a stroll upstairs to see Walt. He knew what to say to make me laugh, and he always brightened my day. If he did that for casual work acquaintances, I can imagine what being a part of his close family and friends was like, he was always the light in the room. May you all find comfort in your memories of Walt, he was one in a million.
A really good friend and truly great guy. Loved by all who knew him. I will miss him.
Jamie and Family,
May you find peace in Walt’s passing. He will always be remembered by me as “Jamie’s Dad” and I cherish the memories of our teenage years getting ready for dances and causing trouble around this fun-loving guy. Keep your chins up and your spirits high, you’ve got an Angel watching over you.
All my love,
Kim Schenk
I grew up 2 houses down from“Mr. DeVillez” on Green Mist. I still vividly remember him firing up the black Chevelle and taking me and Nathan Barger for a quick afternoon drive around the block. It was a very generous act for a couple neighbor kids riding Schwinn bicycles.
Linda, so sorry to hear about Walt!
What good times we had with the AT&T friends at the club house!
I miss those days!!
My prayers are with you & your family!
Walter was like a big brother, best friends with my oldest brother Larry. He was like a son to my mother. He will be missed dearly by our family. May we know each other again in the next life
Worked with Walt for many years. He was truly a professional and great friend. He will be missed.