Walter Nadzak Obituary

Walter Nadzak Charleston - Our dad, Walter Nadzak, Jr., passed away peacefully in Charleston, SC on March 18, 2022 after a heart-wrenching battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 86 years old. Dad was born in Ambridge, PA in 1935. His life and career took him and his family through Ohio, Pennsylvania and Connecticut before he and his amazing wife (our mom), Shirley, ultimately settled in Charleston, SC in 1985. There, Dad served for 15 years as the Athletic Director at The Citadel before his retirement in 2000. Dad meaningfully influenced many lives as a successful athlete, Marine, coach, and athletic director?but was most treasured as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a model of honor and integrity. Mom and Dad celebrated 62 years of marriage before her death in 2019; he was also preceded in death by his sister, Betty. He is survived by his sister, Sandra and his 4 kids (Cary, Tracy, Tripper, and Jeff), along with 7 grandkids and 5 great- grandkids who lovingly called him "Dah" or "Gramcracker." A celebration of Dad's life will be held at the Summerall Chapel at The Citadel on Sunday, April 24, at 1:00 pm, followed by a reception in Mark Clark Hall. To read more about our dad and how his remarkable life unfolded, or to share memories or condolences, visit the Dignity Memorial Carolina Funeral Home & Gardens website. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Stall High Lady Warriors basketball team in Dad's honor (contribute at www.facebook.com/cary.nadzak). Visit our guestbook at legacy.com/obituaries/charleston