Roll Call Tribute

Walter Leo "Walt" Cosman, III 

February 1, 1943 - February 14, 2024 

Walter "Walt" Leo Cosman, III, age 81, departed this life on Wednesday, February 14th, 2024, at his home. Born on February 1st, 1943, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, Walt was the cherished son of the late Walter Leo Cosman, Jr. and Pricillia (Pinter) Cosman.

On September 3, 1966, Walt married the love of his life, Nancy Marie Laitala, in Sacramento, California, marking the beginning of a beautiful journey together.

Walt was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy Marie Cosman.

Left to honor and remember his legacy are his two devoted daughters, Julie Cosman and Christi Olson (Dale Van Camp) of Wausau, Wisconsin. He leaves behind a legacy of love through his seven grandchildren: Tommie Steven Gray II, Jessica Marie Gray, Angelica Strange, Hanna Olson (Cain Gilray), Trenton Olson, Lanilei'a Satele, and Tautai Satele. His memory will also be cherished by his seven great-grandchildren: Hadlee Gilray, Allana Atkins, Robert Ramey Jr, Aurora Ramey, Luna Gray, Elijah Strange, and Zora Gray. Additionally, he is survived by his brother, Joseph (Lisa) Cosman of Lago Vista, Texas, and niece Karen (David) Hall and their children, Andrew, Samuel, and Natalie Hall.

Walt graduated from Texas A & M University in 1964 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and that is also where he was a cadet with ROTC. He proudly served as a navigator in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. Walt's passion for his military service often took center stage in conversations, reflecting his deep love for his country.

Walt and Nancy, married for 49 years, were known for their love of entertaining. They hosted numerous gatherings for friends and family at their home on Lake Wausau. Walt's love for the lake extended to offering pontoon rides day or night, creating lasting memories for those fortunate enough to join him.

Active in his community, Walt contributed his time to the Wausau Elk's Lodge, Wausau Lions Club, Private Industry Council, Lake Wausau Association, and various other organizations.

A visitation and memorial service will take place at Peterson Kraemer Funeral Home Wausau East Location, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau, Wisconsin 54403, from 11 am to 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. The memorial service will follow, and a procession will lead to Restlawn Memorial Park at 235962 N. Troy Street, Wausau, WI, where Walt will receive full military honors and be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife, Nancy, in the mausoleum.

A Celebration of Life and luncheon will be held from 3 pm to 7 pm on Tuesday at Trails End Lodge, 3901 Sherman Road in Wausau, a place Walt loved for his summer boat outings.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the Interim HealthCare Hospice team, Synergy Home Care, the ADRC, and the VA for their unwavering support in honoring Walt's wish to remain at home until his last day. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be directed to the Marathon County Humane Society in Wausau, supporting the adoption fees for older animals in Walt's honor, reflecting his deep love for animals.

Fly High, Captain Walter Leo Cosman, III, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Until we meet again, your spirit will forever soar in our hearts.