It is with profound grief that the family of Walter Seipel, 84, announces his passing on December 25, 2024.
Walter passed away peacefully in his sleep. He was a long-time resident of St Thomas USVI since 1963, when he relocated to the island with his wife, Susan. Walter is survived by his wife of 62 years, Susan, and their son Peter Seipel. His extended family members Margaret Pongonis (Leonard deceased), Ernestine Proto (John), and Rosemarie Murphy (Joseph deceased), residing in Connecticut.
Walter loved St. Thomas. He had a keen interest in VI politics, history, culture and food. Over the years, he accumulated a vast collection of VI books and photos. Walter was privileged to work on the campaign of the first elected governor of the Virgin Islands, Governor Melvin H. Evans, alongside his neighbor and dear friend Leslie Millin Sr. Additionally, Walter was a charter member and officer of the Rotary Club of Charlotte Amalie, a member of the VI Game Fishing Club, Confrerie of the Chaine des Rotisseurs, and the Second VI Constitutional Convention. He worked alongside his friends Speed Berry and Richard Berry to build the Club House at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Mafolie, St. Thomas.
Through his family businesses, Island Fragrance, Northside Grocery, Soap Opera Laundromat, and Walter Seipel and Associates Real Estate, Walter and his family contributed generously to various civic organizations and Ivanna Eudora Kean High School (where his son Peter worked as a teacher for over 20 years). In addition to his personal businesses, Walter worked for the VI Government with the Department of Commerce, Department of Public Works and the Virgin Islands Daily News. Walter also worked in the private sector at Cavanaugh’s Furniture, Merchants Market, and Island Block prior to finding his true niche as an Entrepreneur.
Walter loved the ocean. He participated in many fishing tournaments and won some along with his friends Jeff Kreiner and Capt. Red Bailey. Walter also participated in Rolex Regatta.
His family and his many friends will miss Walter deeply on his beloved St Thomas, USVI.
A heartfelt thank you to Walter’s wonderful, loving, and caring Caregivers: Clarita Ankeney, Abbie Benta, Sonia Buncome, Lorna Smith, and Theresa Toussaint, who became family over the many years that they cared for him. We would also like to thank Continuum Care, Inc., for the services provided in Walter’s home care.
Arrangements are under the care of Dan Hurley Home for Funerals and Cremation Centers of St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.
For online condolences, please visit www.hurleydavisfuneralhome.
