Walter Ketchesin, 80, of Elyria passed away Thursday May 18, 2017 at O'Neill Healthcare in Bay Village following a brief illness. He was born December 22, 1936 in Cassandra, PA. and lived in Elyria for most of his life. Wally worked as a heavy equipment operator for the Allega Cement Company in Cleveland, retiring in 1999. He was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church, a talented mechanic and enjoyed deer hunting. Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Maryann (nee-O'Connor); daughter, Anna Tomko; son, Michael Tomko. He was preceded in death by 4 sisters and 3 brothers. The family will receive friends Wednesday May 24, 2017 in the Weigand Room of St. Mary Church 320 Middle Ave., Elyria, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of a Memorial Mass at 11:00 a.m.. The Rev. Charles Diedrick, pastor will be the Celebrant. Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to St. Mary Church or the St. Joseph Catholic Overnight Shelter 317 15th St. Lorain, OH. 44052. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Laubenthal-Mercado Funeral Home and Cremation Specialists 38475 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Elyria. Online condolences may be expressed at www.laubenthalmercado.com