Walter Herman Block passed peacefully on August 1, 2023 at the age of 95. He was born in Dallas, Texas on April 21, 1928, and was immediately adopted by Edwin Hart Block and Lois Baker Block Vollmer, becoming a part of two Del Rio pioneering families (Blocks and Bakers). He was raised in Del Rio spending time both in town and on Devils River ranches with his relatives. He graduated from Del Rio High School and attended The University of Texas at Austin, returning to Del Rio in the summers. It was at this time that he met and eloped with Betty Nell Bird, staying married for the next 74 years, when she passed four days prior to him.
Walter and Bette were blessed with two children, Dulce Ann “Candy” Graf and W. Wayne Block, their spouses, David Graf, and Chelleye Block respectively, as well as seven grandchildren (Ben Graf, Will Graf, Luke Graf, Allison Trammell, Michael Block, Austin Block, and Weston Block), eight great grandchildren, and a wonderful extended family. Walter was an exceptional father and grandfather spending as much time as he could with his offspring.
Walter’s professional life primarily involved education, working as a teacher, and Finance Director at Del Rio ISD and San Felipe Del Rio CISD. He served on the Val Verde Regional Medical Center Board, the Val Verde County Library Board, as well as a financial trustee for St. James Episcopal Church taking special pride in capital projects they completed. Walter had a passion for writing and completed and published two books about the Del Rio area and family. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and Texas football, but often said his greatest asset was his wonderful family.
Special thanks is extended to the doctors and nurses at Superior Hospice, and the caring staff of Southwest Assisted Living.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Heart Association, The Alzheimer’s Association, St. James Episcopal Church, or the charity of your choice.
A memorial service for Bette and Walter Block will be at St. James Episcopal Church on Saturday, August 12, at 10:30 am.
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