Obituaries

Walter “Walt” Leo Dumback passed away unexpectedly on August 5, 2023, at the age of 65, at his home in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. He was born in Sault Ste. Marie, on June 10, 1958, to Alexander “Alex” Leo and Mary Magdalene (Polaczyk) Dumback.

Walt was raised on the family farm and took responsibility for the farm when he was just fifteen years old. During his high school years, he also played hockey and was a very talented player. He graduated from Sault Area High School in 1977. He continued farming full time, with the dairy farm flourishing, and making hay while the sun shined. He began his career as a heavy equipment operator in 1987, and worked for numerous employers and was highly sought after for his abilities. In 2004, he continued his career with the Chippewa County Road Commission before retiring in 2018.

Following his retirement, Walt was excited to have more time to “tinker in his garage.” Walt spent his last years thoroughly enjoying farming once again, alongside his son, Brian and daughter-in-law, Maleah, and his grandson, Alex.

Walt will be remembered by many as not only an old-time farmer and heavy equipment operator, but as a true “jack of all trades.” Walt was also an experienced welder, fabricator, carpenter, mechanic, and gardener. He often used his skills and abilities to lend a helping hand to many throughout his lifetime; and with that, many of us truly learned so much from him. He loved his tractors and bulldozer; but his greatest love was his family by far. He will be remembered for his one-of-a-kind personality.

Walt is survived by his children, Mandy (Joe) McLean, Lisa (Marty) Jacobson, Brian (Maleah) Dumback, and Nicole (Devon Dear) Dumback; grandchildren, Emily, Madison, and Bailey McLean; and Alex and Molly Jacobson; sisters, Karen Dale, Sandra (Larry) Klusack, and Delores Dumback; brother-in-law, Phil Chalin; sister-in-law, Janice Melin. He is also survived by countless beloved nieces and nephews; “grand” dogs, Luna, Rosco, Eli, Millie, and Honey; and of course, all of the beloved animals on the farm.
Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Alex and Mary; brothers, Alexander Dumback, Jack (Sharon) Melin and James Melin; sisters, Mary Lou Chalin and Ursula Schneider; and brother-in-law, Allan Dale.
Private services will be held for the family at a later date. Please contact the family directly for details.

In honor of Walt, a public Celebration of Life will take place at Bruce Township Hall on Saturday, September 9th, 2023, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flower, memorials may be left to the Chippewa County Animal Shelter. 3660 S. Mackinac Trail, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, or another local charity of your choice.