Obituary of Walter Robert Donnelly

Walter Robert Donnelly Jr., of Sunny Isles Beach, Florida passed away peacefully September 14, 2021 in his home at the age of 90 with his daughter and her fiancé by his side. Born in Brooklyn, NY on January 21, 1931, Walt led a life full of incredible adventure, great joy and accomplishment. Survived by his children Christopher, daughter in law Georgina, daughter Alexa and his beloved grandchildren Emma and Lucas. Walt was predeceased by his parents, siblings and dear wife. At just 17 Walt joined the Navy and became a corpsman. Serving honorably in both Korea and Vietnam, he retired in 1969 and returned to Brooklyn. Unsure of what to do next and always having a “head for numbers” he took an entry level job on Wall St. that would almost instantly change his life. Within weeks, on his lunch break, he met the love of his life Faith at a deli. The connection was immediate and so began a life that the two had always dreamed of. Faith clearly saw his potential and began tutoring him on the subject of Municipal Bonds. Eventually the dream of Titus and Donnelly came to fruition. Feeling that it was best to start their family outside of the city, they bought their home in Ridgewood, NJ. Having a love of horses from a young age, Walt was well known as both a gambler and successful horse owner. His favorite memories were of his summers in Saratoga Springs, NY with family, friends and of course, his adored horses. Nothing made him happier then rising early and walking over with his daughter to “wake up the horses.” Selling his firm in 1990, his entire life was then dedicated to his hobby and spending time with his family. Always loving the warm weather of Miami Walt and Faith relocated to Sunny Isles Beach in 2000. After his wife’s passing in 2013 Walt became a cherished fixture around the neighborhood. He loved to go out to dinner and was quick to know everyone’s name and ask about their family. He was notorious for his fantastic style, dry humor and generosity. He would never let a friend or family member go without and will be missed immensely by the many lives he touched.