Walter J. Harubin 1921-2026
A Remarkable Life of 105 Years. Walter Harubin, 105, of Whately, Massachusetts, lived an extraordinary life marked by hard work and independence. At the time of his passing, Walter was the oldest person in Whately, a remarkable distinction reflecting a lifetime spanning more than a century of change, history, and cherished memories.
Walter proudly served his country during World War II as a member of the United States Navy Seabees, serving with the 23rd Battalion. He spent approximately three years in the Pacific theater before receiving his honorable discharge in 1945. His military service reflected the dedication and determination that would characterize his life for decades to come.
Following his military service, Walter returned to Massachusetts and continued to build a life through hard work and perseverance. He attended Smith Vocational School and developed skills that served him throughout his working years. He worked as a mechanic and operated Harubin’s Service Station, becoming familiar to members of his community through his work and service.
Walter was a man who believed in doing things for himself. Around the age of 40, he undertook the remarkable challenge of building his own home, completing approximately 85 percent of the work himself over three and a half years. This accomplishment reflected his determination, practical skills, and strong sense of independence.
Throughout his working life, Walter held a variety of jobs, including working at a vinyl-footwear factory for more than 20 years. He also inspected airplane parts and later worked in security and maintenance at Historic Deerfield. Whatever the task, Walter brought a practical approach and a willingness to work hard.
Walter enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter. He appreciated the simple pleasures of life and maintained the independence and spirit that carried him through so many years.
In 1947, Walter married his beloved wife, Alexandria. Together, they shared many decades of marriage, raised two children, and created a lifetime of memories. Alexandria passed away in March 2010, and Walter carried her memory with him throughout the years that followed.
He leaves behind his daughter, Katherine Harubin, of Phoenix, Arizona, and his son, Gregory Harubin, of Pomfret, Connecticut. He is also survived by three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Even as he reached the extraordinary age of 105, Walter continued to demonstrate his determination and independence. He renewed his driver’s license at age 104, an impressive accomplishment that reflected his confidence and desire to remain active. He also received support from the Department of Veterans Affairs and benefited from the assistance of LifePath’s Meals on Wheels program.
In his later years, Walter was fortunate to meet a very special friend, Jay Esparza, who he met at the VA in Leeds. Jay and his family became an important source of friendship, kindness, and support in Walter’s life. Their care and companionship meant a great deal to Walter, and their willingness to be there for him during his later years was a meaningful gift. Their friendship brought comfort and companionship to Walter.
A Note of Appreciation. The Williamsburg Funeral Home had the honor of assisting Walter and his beloved late wife, Alexandria, with their cremation and final service arrangements. It was a privilege to be entrusted with these important responsibilities and to help ensure that their wishes were carried out with dignity, compassion, and respect.
Funeral and Burial Services. All are invited to attend a Liturgy of Christian Burial on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Church in South Deerfield, Massachusetts.
Walter will then be laid to rest with full military honors at 1:00 p.m. at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam.
All are welcome to attend and join in honoring Walter’s remarkable life and his dedicated service to our country.
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