Walter Raymond Finley

He was born on April 30, 1927, in Waltham Township, LaSalle County, Ill., to Albert James and Ruby Evelyn Willsey Finley.

He was a graduate of Mendota (IL) High School and served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1945-46. He attended Illinois State University for two years, then transferred to the University of Illinois where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business.

Walt and his family lived in southern California for many years, where he and a partner owned Swift-Cor, an aerospace components manufacturer. After moving to Arizona, Walt became a full partner in Cal-Eaton Properties of Tempe for many years, finally retiring at the age of 89.

Walter is survived by four children: Gail (Mike) Espinoza of Jamestown, N.Y., Paul (Debbie) Finley of Earlville, Ill., Dave Finley and Terri Finley of Sun Lakes, Ariz.; seven grandchildren: Steven (Faith) Espinoza of Sleepy Hollow, N.Y., Laura (Darren) Towers of Annapolis, Md., Jake (Meghan) Finley of Earlville, Ill., Kelsey (John) Peters of Marseilles, Ill., Jenna (Joe) Young of Serena, Ill., Connor (Kara) Finley of Ottawa, Ill., and Harwell Cook of Sun Lakes, Ariz.; two brothers: Earl Finley of Madison, Ala., and Russell Finley of Gilman, Ill.; and 16 greatgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Jensen Finley, in 2010; a son, Mark Finley in 2019; and three brothers: Arthur, C. Kenneth and James Finley.

Walt will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who thoroughly enjoyed spending time with his family. He was also an enthusiastic world traveler who knew how to enjoy life’s small pleasures, such as sharing a glass of his favorite Macallan with friends and family.

At Walt’s request, there will be no visitation or funeral service. He would prefer that you reminisce about the good times and raise a glass of Macallan in his memory.