Walter Freeman Gamble
1923-Jan. 13, 2009
Menlo Park, California

Walter Freeman Gamble, a resident of Menlo Park since 1988, died Jan. 13 of complications from pneumonia. He was 86.

A native Californian, Mr. Gamble was born in Redding. After graduating from high school with honors, he was admitted to Harvard, but due to family finances subsequently attended UC Berkeley, where he was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity.

He enlisted in the military in 1943 and trained in civil engineering at Princeton University. In 1944 and 1945 he served as a staff sergeant in the European theater with the Timberwolf 104th Infantry Division. He received a Purple Heart and took part in the Battle of the Bulge. Returning home, he studied at the University of Southern California on the GI bill. At USC he met his future wife, Lorna Cameron McGibbon. They were married in 1947 after graduation.

He joined his father and brothers at Producer Sales Co. in Los Angeles, where he was vice president and a wholesale produce salesman. Mr. Gamble worked in the produce business until retiring in 1988.

The Gambles lived in West Covina before moving to Menlo Park. In retirement he enjoyed meeting new friends and attending his grandson Casey's baseball or football games at Menlo-Atherton Little League or Menlo-Atherton High School. He also enjoyed watching pro football, and was a faithful Raiders fan, say family members.

Mr. Gamble is survived by his sons, Donald Gamble and Scott Gamble of Menlo Park; daughter Jeana Gamble Monroe of Menlo Park; and one grandchild. He is also survived by two step-grandchildren and one great-grandchild. His wife, Lorna Gamble, died in 1994.

Tags: veteran, business