Ted Kenneth Wachter, a beloved father, son, brother and friend, died on April 10, 2023, at the age of 69. He lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by those who knew him.
Born in Chehalis, Washington, on May 16, 1953, to Walt and June Wachter, Ted grew up with a love for the outdoors. During his school years, Ted was an active Boy Scout where he achieved the rank of Life Scout. While a Scout, he took part in outdoor adventures, like hiking 100 miles in the Cascades. After graduating from Mount St. Helens High School, he worked in the family’s logging business, proudly driving a beautiful gold Peterbilt all over the Pacific Northwest. He later took another adventure, this time overseas. He spent several years in Iraq working as a civilian contractor. He started as a “big rig” driver and was eventually promoted to senior dispatcher.
Throughout his life, Ted was known as a quiet guy who loved hunting, racing and his family. He had a wonderfully dry sense of humor (which his children inherited), a heavy hand with the paprika, and the ability to cheer you up when you needed it the most. He was a loving father to his children Kaytena, Nicholas, Jessie and Samantha.
In his free time, Ted enjoyed hunting, gardening and his morning quad shot mocha. His enjoyment of hunting, a pastime he shared with his father, was handed down to his son, Nick. In his earlier years, Ted loved fast cars, devoting much of his time to souping up his 1960 Corvette for drag racing.
Ted will be deeply missed by his family and friends. He leaves behind an everlasting legacy of kindness, generosity, and love that will live on in our hearts.
He was preceded in death by his father, Walter Kenneth Wachter. He is survived by his children, Kaytena Gonzalez (Mark), Nicholas Wachter, Jessie Wachter and Samantha Wachter; his mother, Alta June Wachter-Busse; siblings Kathy Heikkila (Ron), Wayne Wachter (Sue), Kris Carroll (Larry), Karen Robey (Troy) and Kari Inman (Larry); six grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
A viewing is scheduled from 1 to 5 p.m. on Friday, April 28, 2023, at Cattermole Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church on April 29, 2023, with graveside services to follow. A reception will be held at the Hope Grange.
