Former Owner of Walt's Country Grill Dies at 79

Walter Schoelkopf, 79, of Matawan, died Wednesday March 20, 2013. He was born in Newark New Jersey, and he grew up in Elmhurst Queens NY. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1953, where he was stationed in Bamberg Germany. Walter worked as a salesman for Ballantine Brewery. In 1963 Walter and his wife Dolores moved to Aberdeen.

In 1975, Walter realized his dream of opening his own restaurant. He was the owner of Walt's Country Grill in Matawan New Jersey, for 24 years. Walter was an avid gardener, taking pride in his garden. He was a passionate Yankee fan, and enjoyed watching the Yankees with his neighbors. Walter had an interest in computers, and eventually became the "Go to Person" when friends and neighbors were having computer troubles. Walter was truly a patriot; he had an immense love and pride for our country. Walter's greatest passion was his family; they were his pride and joy.

Walter is predeceased by his parents George and Martha Schoelkopf, his sister Margaret Mickley, his brother Herman Schoelkopf. He is survived by his loving wife Dolores (nee Hill) Schoelkopf, his three sons Gary Schoelkopf and his wife Toni, Lawrence Schoelkopf, and Michael and his wife Kris Schoelkopf. He is also survived by his two granddaughters Samantha and Allison Schoelkopf and three grandsons Lucas, Jacob and Aaron Schoelkopf, his sister Marge Cuiffo and many loving nieces and nephews. 

Visiting hours were held at Waitt Funeral Home, 501 Hwy 79, Morganville with entombment at Holmdel Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or Wounded Warrior Project. 

To share photos, memories or to send an online condolence, please visit waittfh.com.