Walter Calvin Birney Sr., 94, of North East, MD passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Born in Elkton, MD on November 18, 1930, he was the son of the late Charles Sr. and Phoebe Hollett Birney.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Walter served his country with honor during the Korean War from March 1953 to December 1954. After his service, he built a long and steady career as a kiln fireman at Harbison-Walker International and found great joy as a dedicated harness racing owner, trainer and driver. Walter had been a member of VFW Post 8175 and the American Legion, where he valued the camaraderie of fellow veterans. He enjoyed gardening, tractors, horses, brewing homemade beer, collecting clocks, and cheering on motorcycle races. He especially loved spending time with his beloved dogs, Willa and Millie. Walter will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him dearly.

Survivors include his children, Donna Baker, Elkton, MD, Diane Neal, Newark, DE, Helen "Debbie" Birney, North East, MD, Walter Birney Jr. (Rose), Port Deposit, MD, and Howard Birney (Maud), North East, MD; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 2 great-great-grandchildren; siblings, David Birney, North East, MD, Lawrence Birney, Elkton, MD, and Nancy McCullin, Townsend, DE; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 67 years, Margaret Clark Birney; and siblings, Charles Birney Jr., Benjamin Birney, Wilson Birney, and Phoebe Murray.

Funeral service will be held 11 AM, Friday, August 1, 2025 at Hicks Home for Funerals, 103 W. Stockton Street, Elkton, MD 21921, with visitation beginning at 9:30 AM. Interment with Military Honors will be in Cherry Hill Methodist Cemetery, Cherry Hill, MD.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, or to the Alzheimer's Association, in care of Hicks Home for Funerals, P.A. at the above address.