Walter Irwin “Pappy” Horner, 77, of Muncie passed away in his home on Saturday, August 6, 2022 following an extended illness. He was born in Washington, PA on September 21, 1944 to James and Blanche (Anderson) Horner.

Walt grew up in Paducah, KY where he worked on a farm. At 17 years old, he returned to Washington, PA where he met the love of his life, Karen Henderson, at a local dance. He and Karen married in 1966. They were members of the Washington Church of Christ.

Overall, Walt worked for the Ball Corporation for more than 37 years. He started as an Upkeep Man at the plant in Washington, PA until it closed in 1988. He then transferred to the Muncie, IN plant where he worked as a mechanic in the Machine Repair Division for nearly 10 years. Walt had an incredible work ethic and received commendations for his attendance and dedication to his job. He was a member of the The Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics and Allied Workers International Union.

Walt enjoyed hunting and night fishing with his kids. He was a member of several bowling leagues, enjoyed watching classic western movies on television and tending to his garden. Most recently, one of his favorite activities was sitting on the couch playing slot machine games on his tablet.

Above all, though, Walt will be remembered for the love that he had for his family! He was an amazing provider who focused on giving his family the very best life that he could. Walt had a soft spot in his heart for children. He spent hours coaching his kids and their friends in youth sports leagues and enjoyed sitting on the porch watching the neighbor kids play. HIs grandchildren and great-grandchildren, though, were his whole world!

Walt is survived by his loving wife of 59 years, Karen; two sons, David (Jamie) Horner of Anderson and Jeffrey (Dianna Nguyen) Horner of Carmel; two daughters, Trisha (Randy) Stephens of Flat Rock, IL and Vicki (Tony Blackstone) Lichtenberger of Richmond; two sisters, Mary Stevens and Dusty Barker both of Streetsboro, OH; nine grandchildren, Tyler, Macheala, Emmilee, Karisa, Kimmiee, Kyle, Olivia, Alexis and Alayna; and four great-grandchildren, Evelyn, Jordyn, Draco and Finn.

He is preceded in death by his parents, one grandson, four brothers, and three sisters.

A celebration of Walt’s life will be held at 1:00pm on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at Shawnee Heights Baptist Church (1600 E. Fuson Road, Muncie, IN 47302)

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.