Walter Clifton Morris passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, in San Leandro, California, at the age of 87.
Born at home on August 7, 1938, in Seattle, Washington, to Walter Morris and Margaret “Nora” Morris, Walt came to Alameda with his family in 1947. He grew up on Buena Vista Avenue, built his career, raised his family, and spent his adult life on the same street he proudly called home.
At age 18, Walt began working at the Del Monte Plant in Alameda as a forklift driver. He became a foreman and spent 42 years with the company before retiring in April 2000. He also proudly served as president of the union.
On February 4, 1975, Walt married Barbara Morris. Together they shared nearly 41 years of marriage before Barbara’s passing in 2016. Retirement gave them the opportunity to enjoy traveling the world. They were active parishioners at St. Philip Neri Church.
Walt was the father of Wally, Dennis, Tammy, and Tracy. Through his marriage to Barbara, he welcomed her children, Vicki and Rick, as his own. He was a proud grandfather to Traci, Carney, and Leah, and a proud great-grandfather to Kyle.
Walt believed in giving back to the community that had given him so much. For more than 52 years, he volunteered with Alameda Meals on Wheels until declining health required him to step away in 2025. He was also a dedicated blood donor for the American Red Cross for more than 40 years, a generous supporter of Alameda High School Athletic Boosters, Alameda Boy Scout Troop 1015, and Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS). An animal lover throughout his life, Walt always chose to adopt rescue pets and gave them loving homes. He frequently brought his beloved dogs, Harley, Charley, and Shilo along with him while delivering meals.
A lifelong Oakland Raiders fan from the beginning, Walt brought his sons, Wally and Dennis, to many Raiders games.
Walt was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Tracy; his parents; his wife, Barbara Morris; his brothers, Robin, Richard, and Joey; his nieces, Marjolyn and Tauna; his nephew, Corey; and his dear lifelong friend, Roger Goodman.
Walt is survived by his children, Wally, Dennis, and Tammy; Vicki Wilson (Gary) and Rick Hocking (Kristi); his grandchildren, Traci, Carney, and Leah; his great-grandson, Kyle; his dear sister, Roz; his uncle, Bob Norman; and Connie Villanueva, who was loved as a sister.
Affectionately known as “Uncle Bear” to his nieces and nephews, Walt is also lovingly remembered by Rosilyn (Patrick), Ritchie, Christopher (Gina), Robin Jr. (Manya), and Anthony (Lynette); his many great-, great-great-, and great-great-great nieces and nephews; extended family; and lifelong friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Walt’s memory may be made to Alameda Meals on Wheels, the American Red Cross, or Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS).
