The world has lost one of its most gentle souls. Walter Joseph Eliason passed away on January 26, 2026.
Walter was born on May 19, 1930 in Philadelphia, PA. After serving in the Navy, he discovered a love of learning which continued throughout his life. A first-generation college attendee, he proudly graduated from LaSalle University BA, Villanova University, MA, and Temple University, Ed D. Most of his career was spent teaching English as a Second Language in the Education Department at Rider University. Walt was a Fulbright Scholar, which provided him the opportunity to teach in Tunisia in 1963, Peru in 1985, and Costa Rica in 1987.
Walt married the love of his life, Joan Carroll Eliason in 1961. They shared nearly six decades and together were amazing examples to their children of hard work and compassion for others. He is survived by his sons Mark Eliason (Beth), Nick Eliason, David Eliason, Chris Eliason (Karen), and his daughter Najet Eliason Hoban (Jim), grandchildren Jalyssa, Sara, Jim, Danielle, Katie, Ryan, Emily, Aden, Nicole and Aaron, and great grandchildren Callan and Kendall.
He is also survived by his brother Bill (Joan), sisters Maryann and Peggy (Jim) and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife Joan, daughter-in-law Yarixa Eliason, brothers Steven and Gregory and sister Dolores.
He will be dearly missed by those who loved him as he always made us feel uniquely loved. His smile and encouraging words helped Walter be a favorite of family and friends as well as students and colleagues. He believed in resurrection, so we pray his spirit will join those who preceded him and remain in the hearts and souls of us still living on this earth.
Family and friends are invited to Walter’s Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM on Friday, February 27, 2026 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 752 Big Oak Rd., Morrisville, PA 19067. Services provided by Beck-Givnish Life Celebration Home, 7400 New Falls Rd., Levittown, PA 19055.