Walter C. Gramstad, age 93, of Rochelle, passed away on Friday, October 3, 2008 at Rochelle Rehabilitation Center in Rochelle. He was born on Sept. 26, 1915 in Rochelle, and grew up on a farm near Steward, IL, the son of John and Hannah Ediness Gramstad. He graduated from Sycamore High School in 1932. Walter married Loretta M. Barbel on July 16, 1941 in Aurora, IL. Following a career as a meat cutter in Aurora, he began farming in the Ashton area in 1951. He served on the Reynolds Township Board as Supervisor for many years. He was an avid bowler in the Rochelle Leagues. He bowled on the Moore's Hardware Bowling Team for more than 50 years until the age of 90. In 2000 he was inducted into the American Bowling Hall of Fame.
He also golfed frequently until the age of 91. He was preceded in death by 4 sisters: Ella Dumbie, Clara Grove, Helen Lutz, and Arletta Elaine LeMaster; and 2 brothers: John and Stanley Gramstead.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Loretta of Rochelle, and several nieces and nephews including David (Kathy) Bjorseth of Aurora.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, Oct. 6, 2008 at the Unger-Honer Funeral Home.
Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Monday prior to the funeral.
Burial will be at Union Cemetery in Steward, IL.
A memorial has been established.