Walter S Fraunfelder, III

WALTER STANLEY FRAUNFELDER, III

Walter Passed away at the age of 67 on Tuesday February 17, 2026 in his sleep after a long-battled illness. He is survived by his Life Partner of 41 years Thomas P. Capretta, his brother Terry (wife Jan), Sister Peggy Gilbert, sister Pam Lombardo (husband Ralph) and brother Sean (wife Linda); preceded in death by his brothers Jeff (deceased), Greg (deceased), parents Walter Fraunfelder II and Mother Kathrine Fraunfelder.

Walter grew up in Newbury Ohio, the 5th of seven kids, with an older sister and 3 older brothers, and a younger sister and brother. It seemed odd that, as the 4th boy, he would be named after his Father and Grandfather, but somehow they recognized Walter as their spitting image, Walter's dad was nicknamed "Bud" and Walter therefore was also nicknamed "little Buddy" by his Grandmother.

After high school, Walter attended The Cleveland Institute of Art, proudly graduating in 1983 with a BFA. He was fortunate to study under Colorist Painter Julian Stanczak, Artist Edwin Mieczowski, Surface Designer and Fabric Artist Wenda Von Weise. Walter was truly a gifted Artist, with paintings in both private and public collections, including the Ronald McDonald House, University Hospital, as well as New York, California, and Germany. His artworks are displayed in many Cleveland area private homes. Walter's paintings were published in the prestigious American Artwork catalogue. Walter's interpretation of a self portrait was even posted on the Cleveland Museum of Art website.

Throughout his life, Walter worked in Visual Arts at both the Higbee's and May Company. He also demonstrated excellent Floral Design skills which brought him the opportunity to work for the esteemed Don Vanderbrook. Vanderbrook and staff worked in such high-profile venues such as the National Opera for the Kennedy Center, the White House in Washington D.C. and Mount Vernon, as well as local venues such as Severance Hall and Play House Square.

Walter also was a business owner with his partner Thom when they opened their restaurant, "The Out Lunch Cafe" in the Old Arcade in Downtown Cleveland from 1992 to 1999.

Walter and Thom had a long and wonderful life together over 4 decades. They owned 4 different homes together which took them from Collinwood to South Euclid, and 2 different houses in University Heights, along with their 3 pets...the Devil Cat "Lucia", a Jack Russell terrier "Rodney", and a Jack Russell "Buster". Walter loved to entertain at home with lavish dinner parties. He was an incredible cook, and his meals rivaled those enjoyed in Cleveland's best restaurants.

After Walter retired, he continued to create his distinctive paintings, design floral arrangements, garden, and cook for dear friends and family alike.

Walter had a heart of gold and he will always be remembered for his kindness, his generosity, his laughter and wonderful anecdotes telling his great stories. There will never be another one like Walter.

Memorial Visitation and Celebration of Life 1-4 pm, Saturday, March 14 at THE FIORITTO FUNERAL HOME, 5236 MAYFIELD ROAD, LYNDHURST (EAST OF RICHMOND ROAD).