Donald Drake Walter, 79, of Niagara Falls, NY passed away on February 8, 2014 at Niagara Hospice House in Lockport, NY. Born in Niagara Falls, NY he was the son of the late Charles and Isabella (Cowan) Walter.

Donald attended local schools and graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1952. He served in the United States Air Force as an Airman First Class Officer from March 23, 1953 until his honorable discharge on March 24, 1957. Red, as he was known as by all, began his work career at the former Olin Mathieson Chemical Corporation in Niagara Falls, NY. He then became a pressman and was employed by at the former Wahl Printing and Binding, Co. also located in Niagara Falls, NY until his retirement. Since his retirement, Red was involved with Zakia's Automotive and was very influential to Jim Zakia's racing career by assisting him with engine building and high performance consulting. He had an incredible engineering mind with many new ideas and insights for the future.

Don enjoyed movies and was an avid sports fan. He especially enjoyed baking and belonged to the King Arthur's Bread Baking Club. He loved dearly his two cats, Sweetie and Buster which were known as his lifelong companions. Above all, Red will be remembered as a very kind, selfless man who always put others first.

Donald is survived by many friends including his longtime friends, Jim and Mary Kay Zakia, Tony Manna, Bob and Darlene O'Callaghan and Lori Smith.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 12th from 6 -8 P.M. at the M.J. COLUCCI & SON FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road Niagara Falls, NY where funeral services will follow at 8:00 P.M. with Deacon Benjamin Marino officiating, concluding with Military Honors. Interment will be held in Oakwood Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.