Walter Anthony Choma, age 85, of Wilmington, passed away surrounded by his family on Monday, January 22, 2024 after one hell of a boxing match with throat cancer.  The record stands Walt- 4, Throat Cancer-1.

Walt was born in Wilmington, son of the late Agnes (Pucylowski) and Joseph Choma. After graduating from Wilmington High School, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Tang. He went on to serve as a patrolman with the Wilmington Police Department before settling on his career as an Ironworker with Falcon Steel, Local 451 until his retirement. An avid outdoorsman, Walt loved crabbing and fishing, usually while enjoying an ice-cold beer. In his free time, he loved tending to the sunflowers in his garden, spending time with his beagle Elsa, and of course going to the casino and horse races at Delaware Park.

Walt's zest for life could be felt from the moment you met him. Always with a ready smile, a wink of his eye, and signature vice grip handshake.  He knew what was truly important in life and never let cancer change who he was. Walt simply loved being alive and took great pleasure in the little things in life: the birds at his feeders, walking barefoot in the grass, fiddling with his lawn ornaments.  He was famous for his spaghetti and crabs, his larger than life personality, and his mantra, don't worry - be happy.  Walt lived life on his terms, and despite his tough exterior, he had the biggest heart. No matter what obstacle came his way, he lived life to the fullest which is a lesson to us all.  Our hearts are broken but we are grateful to the man who showed us what a life well lived looks like.

In addition to his parents, Walt was predeceased by his brothers Joseph and Francis and sister, Agnes.

Walt is survived by his wife, Mary; daughters and son-in-laws, Kathleen (Jerry), Angela (Steve), and Maria; grandchildren Brittany, Meghan, Rebecca, Sarah, Adria, Joshua, Jaeger, Jared, and Cassie Lynn; nine great-grandchildren; sister, Mary; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to join us as we celebrate the life of this amazing man on February 9, 2024 from 5 pm - 9 pm at the Atterbury VFW - 649 Churchmans Rd, Newark, DE 19702.  We look forward to hearing your favorite stories and memories of the one and only, Walt Choma.