Walter L. Bainter

Walter L. Bainter, age 86, of Barry, IL, passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at the Barry Health and Senior Living Center.  He was born in Beverly, IL, on May 23, 1939 to Walter M. and Mildred (Wagy) Bainter.  He married Reba Barker on October 3, 1975 in Payson, IL, and she survives.

Walter attended school in Barry, IL.  He began working for Morely Farms, farming and driving the lime truck.  He later went to work as a machinist for Revcon- which became Dura, and retired from there.  Walter also mowed lawns and did odd jobs around town for others. 

He was innovative and creative, always building something out of metal- little semis out of lawn mowers or a pick-up truck out of a van.  He also welded roll cages for race cars.   Walter enjoyed hunting for deer, squirrel, and mushrooms.  He also enjoyed spending time with family and going to family reunions. 

Walter is survived by; his loving wife, Reba Bainter of Barry, IL; children, Terry (Kathy) Bainter of Barry, IL, Rebecca (Dennis) Edwards of Jerseyville, IL, Tina (David) Gerhardt of Sparta, TN, Darrell (Kandis) Bainter of Panama City Beach, FL, Susan (Madison) Sronce of Plainview, IL, and George (Julie) Bainter of Barry, IL; 16 grandchildren; several great grandchildren; a sister, Betty Martin; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by; his parents, Walter M. and Mildred Bainter; brother, Eugene Bainter; sisters, Marybelle (Russel) Ward, Eileen (Johnny) Bridgeman; Geraldine Bainbridge; nephew, Buck Bainter: and great nephew, Timothy Lange. 

A funeral service will be held Friday, April 10, 2026 at 6:00 pm at Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry, IL.  Visitation will be prior to the service from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  Private burial at Park Lawn Cemetery at a later date.  Memorials are suggested to Barry Fire Department and the Alzheimer's Association.  Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com.  Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry, IL is handling the arrangements. 

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