Wilbur Dean Walters, a beloved husband, loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather, uncle and friend to many, passed away peacefully surrounded by his 4 children and 2 granddaughters on January 21, 2026 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, at the age of 92.

Born in Albion, Illinois, on August 25, 1933 to Harry E. and Blanche Walters. Dean lived a life filled with love, laughter and service to others.

Dean is preceded in death by his cherished wife, Byrdie Sue Walters, who was the love of his life for almost 55 years. He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion.

Survived by his children, Dean Walters, Susan Flores and her husband Tim, Mary Lynn Bailey and her husband Mack and Mark Walters and his wife Mendi. He was a proud grandfather and his heart swelled with joy as he embraced the role of great-great grandfather.

He has:

9 Grandchildren

15 Great Grandchildren

2 Great-Great Grandchildren

In addition to his role as a devoted family man, Dean was a proud veteran of the United States Army, serving during the Korean War and stationed in France. His commitment to service extended beyond his military duties; he dedicated his professional life to Sandia Laboratories, where he worked diligently as a computer operator until his well-deserved retirement. After retiring, Dean also drove buses for fire crews, then became their mechanic. Dean found joy in making and donating quilts for newborn babies.

Dean was a faithful member of Del Norte Baptist Church in Albuquerque, where he found a loving community and Christian fellowship. His involvement in the church reflected his generous spirit and his desire to give back to those around him.

An avid outdoorsman, Dean thrived in nature and loved spending time camping and fishing. He was a devoted Cub Master and Boy Scout leader for Albuquerque Troops 443 and 444, also worked with his wife's Girl Scout Troop 177, where he imparted his love of the wilderness to countless young boys and girls. Known for his culinary skills, he delighted in preparing chicken foil dinners and hot peach cobbler over hot coals, creating lasting memories around the campfire. Dean took great pleasure in teaching scouts how to fish, set up camps, make fires and even cooking meals in paper bags, nurturing not just their skills, but their love for the great outdoors.

Dean was a man of many admirable qualities. He has a contagious laugh and a remarkable ability to find humor in everyday life. Whether he was fixing a broken car or picking up tools from the road, his unwavering kindness and willingness to help others defined him. He has a knack for saving every screw, nut, and bolt he encountered, embodying a resourcefulness that many admired.

Dean had a special fondness for all his children and the generations of grandchildren, instilling in them the values of hard work, compassion, and the joy of laughter. He took immense pride in being a Great-Great Grandfather, cherishing every moment spent with his growing family.

Although he never could smell, he had an unerring instinct for good New Mexican food, especially anything featuring the beloved green chili.

A memorial service celebrating Dean's life will be held on February 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM at Del Norte Baptist Church, located at 5800 Montgomery Blvd. NE., Albuquerque, NM.

Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories of a man who touched the lives of so many with his warmth, generosity and unwavering love.