ARLINGTON HEIGHTS - Walter C. Franiak, 90 years old, passed away on October 19, 2016. Son of Joseph Franiak and Nellie (Ligas), Walter was born on April 1, 1926 in Valparaiso, IN. He joined the Merchant Marines at the age of 17 and served in the Army from 1946-1948 at Fort Sill in Lawton, OK. Walter married Marion (Stasik) on October 16, 1948 in Chicago, IL; they were married for 68 years. Walter played minor league baseball for the Eau Claire Bears in Wisconsin, and spent his professional career working in the commodities business in Chicago, IL. Walter is preceded in death by sister Michalina Gust and brother Theodore. He is survived by his wife and life companion Marion, sons Walter "Sonny" and Frank (Laura), granddaughters Jennifer, Julia (Jared), Victoria (Andrew), and grandson Joe (Danell). Wally was a very generous man and enjoyed trading stocks, riding his bike, and reading the newspaper daily. Wally will be dearly missed by his family; with his memory carried on forever in their hearts.