Walton, Carl A. born January 12, 1925, passed away September 28, 2013 at the age of 88. He died peacefully at home in Laguna Hills, California, in the presence of his beloved wife and daughters. Carl is survived by his wife, Helen Leutheuser Walton, and three daughters, Christine Buccola of Diamond Bar, CA (wife of Daniel), Julia Roberson of Clayton, CA (wife of Alan), and Jane Wahl of San Clemente, CA (wife of Gene). Carl was also blessed with 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Carl was born in Pontiac, Michigan, the youngest of five children of Carl A. Walton, Sr., and Elizabeth Weaver Walton. After graduating from Addison High School, he was drafted into the Army and served his country in the European Theater in the 90th Infantry Division, under General Patton. During the first 8 months of fighting on the frontlines, at the age of 19 he received five promotions, culminating in a battlefield commission and promotion to the rank of 1st Lieutenant. Carl received the Silver Star for gallantry in action. On his 80th birthday to commemorate his service to our country, his children dedicated a plaque in their father's honor at Mount Soledad Veterans Memorial near La Jolla, California.

After the war, Carl married his high school sweetheart, Helen Leutheuser. He designed and built their first home in Somerset, Michigan and later lived in Hillsdale where they raised their children. In 1963 the family moved west to California. Carl's music was his greatest passion. He enjoyed sharing his talent on the trumpet with others, whether playing solo or with various local bands throughout the years, including playing along with bands on cruise ships.

Carl and Helen were world travelers. His love for history was enriched through the many destinations and far-away places they explored. Whether by freighter, riverboat or luxury cruise ship, each trip was an adventure.

Carl was truly a self-made man: steadfast and giving husband, wise and patient father, gentle yet strong, multi-talented yet humble. Carl and Helen's marriage of 67 years was an example of abiding love, commitment, and sacrifice.

A memorial service was held Friday, October 4, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at The Wellington in Laguna Hills, California. On Saturday, October 19, 2013 at 12:00 p.m. there will be a family memorial luncheon at the home of Christine and Dan Buccola in Diamond Bar, California.

In lieu of flowers a memorial donation is suggested in Carl's name to the Somerset Congregational Church, 10449 Somerset Road, Somerset, Michigan 49281 or to the Florence Smith Leutheuser Scholarship at Hillsdale College, Institutional Advancement, Hillsdale College, 33 E. College Street, Hillsdale, MI 49242.