Walter Gerald Felt (Gerry) passed away on December 1, 2023, at the age of 78, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. In his final weeks, Gerry did not allow the cancer to define the end of his life. He died the way he lived – with bravery, humility, and humor. 
 
Born and raised in a small town in North Dakota, Gerry’s calling was to serve his country. After graduating high school, he joined the United States Navy. Gerry wanted to be a part of something bigger than himself. Through selfless service and a profound love of his country, Gerry served to safeguard democracy and protect service members abroad. He proudly served 24 years in the Navy before retiring as a Cryptologic Technician Master Chief. 
 
While stationed in San Vito, Italy, during the early part of his Naval career, Gerry met his wife and love of his life, Cosima. Their courtship was short, but their love for one another was long and enduring, spanning 56 years of marriage. He promised to show her the world and he delivered. During a long Navy career and subsequent career in the Department of State, they were posted in the Philippines, Italy, Germany, Russia and Thailand. Their travels took them to countless other countries around the world.
 
Gerry retired for a second time as a Regional Security Officer in the Diplomatic Security Service at the Department of State. For nearly 25 years he dedicated his life to advance U.S. foreign policy and to safeguard national security interests. 
 
Gerry was a loving father, dedicated husband and friend to many. He is survived by his sister Judy, wife Cosima, two children, John and Tony, and grandson Joe. 
 
Gerry’s last wish was to be interred in Cosima’s hometown of Brindisi, Italy. The family will take Gerry on his last international trip to Italy to honor his wishes. Gerry will be laid to rest 56 years after he made a vow to Cosima that he would take care of her “for better or worse, till death do us part.” 
 
Please join the family for a celebration of life for Gerry on his birthday, January 13, 2024, at 2:00 PM. The celebration will take place at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601. Military honors will take place at the end of the service, and a reception with the family will take place thereafter.

In lieu of flowers, the Family asks that donations be made on Gerry's behalf either to the: Tunnel to Towers Foundation https://t2t.org/donate/?gad_source=1…or the Vets on Track Foundation (donate with PayPal Giving Fund)
https://www.paypal.com/US/fundraiser/charity/2331659