Walter Bortz Obituary

I worked for Walt as an Admissions Counselor after graduating from Bethany. He was indeed a great man. He will be missed by all who knew him. He was a boss and a friend.

When I was a Freshman on the soccer team at Bethany, Walter was one of the young team assistants and my biggest advocate to move into a
starting role. He encouraged and challenged me with a vision of my ability that I would grow into.. over the years we stayed in touch and am saddened by hearing this news today but so thankful for the legacy of lives changed like mine that will carry on his heart to lift others

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Walter hired me in 1982 at the University of Hartford Office of Admissions. A great role model and mentor to me and so many fellow colleagues along the way. He set the bar high but provided supportive encouragement! I look back on our time then with fond memories of a tight knit group of young professionals making a difference with you at the helm. My deepest condolences to Lorraine , Cathy and Walter IV. He was one of the best...
Susan Buchholz

I am so sorry to hear of Walter´s passing. I met Walter on my job interview for Director of Admissions at the University of Hartford where he was Vice President. In short he took a chance on 30 year old me for the position and I owe him for that which gave me the opportunity for a long career there. Walter had high expectations from those who worked for him but was also a gifted teacher as well as a kind and compassionate colleague. He taught me so much about leadership & how to behave as a young professional. He left UHart for GWU shortly after my arrival & I regret not having the chance to learn more from him.
He always made time for me when I´d visit DC and I was honored to attend his inauguration at HSC.
Blessings to Lorraine, Cathy & Walter IV.

I met Walter during the summer between my junior and senior years of high school. He arranged a visit for my mother and me to Bethany which we made on October 22, 1973. The decision I made to come to Bethany has had more impact on my life than any other single event. I will be eternally grateful. I am still in Bethany and Bethany in me.

I can still hear Walter singing
"How Great Thou Art" in Bethany
Memorial Church. Deep Condolences to the Bortz Family.