Obituary: Walter Joseph Stilphen Jr.

Walter Joseph Stilphen Jr.

BRIDGEWATER, Mass. – Walter Joseph Stilphen Jr., 72, passed away peacefully at Hope House Hospice on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, with his loving family by his side.

Walter was born in Portland, Maine to Walter J. Stilphen Sr. and Shirley A. Stilphen. He graduated from South Portland High School and went on to receive a B.S. from University of Maine where he played football and was a member of Phi Kappa Sigma.

At 18, Walter earned a badge and began his career in law enforcement and served his community with pride. In 1979, Walter was called to work as the Secretary Treasurer and Chief Principal Officer for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 48. Walter was passionate about fair labor standards, collective bargaining, and workplace safety. He carried those beliefs to his next career at Hannaford where he worked from 1988 to 1998. Walter started in Human Resources but frustrated Operations to the point they made him Director of Distribution. Walter worked as the Vice President of Distribution for American Sales. He ended his career as a General Manager for Coastal Pacific Food Distributors where he retired after 16 years.

Walter believed that knowledge was power. When he was not working, he was reading or perfecting his black belt in Ninpo Jiu Jitsu. He used what he learned to coach others. During his life, he met and coached many wonderful people. He was described by those he mentored as humble, powerful, and insightful.

While Walter lived to work, his greatest joy in his life was his family. His best days were spent with his wife and best friend, Carolynne. He was especially happy during Christmas. Every year, he would watch his favorite movie, “Scrooge”, and sing “I like life. Life likes me.”

In his retirement, he began to loosen his tie and play board games with his grandchildren. His favorite game to play was Uno where he lovingly mocked his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Walter is survived by his wife, Carolynne Stilphen of Massachusetts; three daughters, Theresa Rock and her husband, Arthur Rock, of Massachusetts, Carly Stilphen of Rhode Island, and Christy Stilphen of Maine; two grandchildren, Harper Rock and Spencer Rock of Massachusetts; one sister, Lisa Ellington of Maine, and four brothers, Steven, Dean, and Kevin Stilphen of Maine, and Greg Stilphen of Florida.

There are many lives that Walter has touched. He will be missed but has asked that people celebrate his life.

Walter will be laid to rest at Brooklawn Memorial Park at 2002 Congress St., Portland ME, 04102, on Oct. 16, at 11 a.m. Afterward, a celebration of life will be held at DiMillo’s at 25 Long Wharf, Portland, ME 04101 at 12:30 p.m. All are invited to come and celebrate.

Those who wish to make contributions in Walter’s memory are encouraged to consider donating to:

Good Shepherd Food Bank

P.O. Box 1807

Auburn, ME 04211-18076

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