Obituary of Walter E. Cheetham

Walter E. Cheetham, age 86 of Cheshire, died on July 16, 2015 at Hartford Hospital. Walter was born on December 2, 1928 in Lowell, MA, son of the late John J. and Ellen (Garvey) Cheetham. He was the devoted husband of Georgette R. (Emond) Cheetham for 65 years, as well as the loving father of Louise Swerling and cherished grandfather of Olivia and David Swerling. He is survived by his wife, daughter, and two grandchildren, as well as his son-in-law Robert Swerling and two brothers, Henry and Dan Cheetham of Massachusetts. An admired and respected Professor of Special Education, Walter was one of the original founders of that department at SCSU. He devoted his long career to preparing educators to teach children with disabilities. Throughout many decades, he was the “go-to person” at work, able to solve almost any administrative or academic problem, and known especially for his deep commitment to students. He also was a gregarious, generous man beloved by many, with the kind of personality that could light up a room. He will live on in the hearts and memories of his family and friends, as well as in the work of hundreds of educators across the state whom he taught and influenced. A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of his family. The Alderson-Ford Funeral Home of Cheshire has been entrusted with his arrangements. A memorial service also is planned for a later date. Walter was a regular and avid contributor to many charities, including St. Jude Children’s Hospital; the American Heart Association; and the Jimmy Fund. Memorial contributions may be made to any of these charities, or to the Walter Cheetham Scholarship Fund at SCSU. To leave condolences for his family or to share a story of Walter, please visit www.fordfh.com