Walter, the oldest child of the late James & Levonia Bircher, was born in Winona, Texas. He attended public schools in Winona and Gladewater, Tx. He was a member of Waters Bluff CME Church.

He united in marriage to Betty Dorsey and they had three children, Derrick, Cynthia and Gwendolyn. Walter explored various cities but made Tyler home.

In his years of employment, Walter wore many hats. He was one of the first men of color to work for Wagner Cadillac and Hillside Furniture, where he quickly excelled into being one of the most sought-after employees. He also worked at the packing house; as a delivery driver; taxi driver; and he also worked in the oilfield industry as a diesel mechanic, among other occupations.

Although his health started failing early, he never let that hinder him. In life, Walter faced a tremendous amount of adversity and calamity but he took the high road and never let it get him down. He still wore a big grin and never complained. Walter didn't believe in carrying a grudge or harboring animosity. He believed the words of The Bible - vengeance is The Lord's.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers, Charles, Joe and James. His son Derrick and the mother of his children Betty.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughters, Gwendolyn Bircher Lehew (Reese) of Plano, Tx. and Cynthia Bircher Onuoha Williams (Marcus) of Tyler, Tx.; six grandchildren and six great grandchildren; two sisters, Margie Phillips, Winona, Tx. and Connie Rutherford, Forney, Tx.; three brothers, Leon, Dallas, Tx., Pondester, Winona, Tx. and John, Tyler, Tx.; a conglomerate of family and a few friends.