We are saddened to learn about the passing of Walter B. Bull Jr. ’58 on March 19, 2024.
Walter B. Bull, Jr. W’58, of Pinehurst, NC, was a retired investment banker and political columnist who served in US Army. At Penn, he was a member of Penn Theta SAE and the rowing team.
During the 1970s, he served as a Chapter Advisor along with Russell Heuer, House Corporation President. Many Brothers from this era have very vivid and fond memories of Brother Walter’s participation in Fraternity and House affairs.
To view Walter’s full obituary as posted on The Pilot, keep reading below.
“Walter Beresford Bull, Jr. passed from this life on March 19, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of political dedication and intellectual vigor. Born on Jan 30, 1933, in Monroe, N.Y., Walter was the son of Walter Beresford Bull, Sr. and Florence Dash Bull.
A graduate of Aquinas Institute of Rochester, “Credo Quid Quid Dixit Dei Filius,” Walter joined the Army where he earned the nickname “Boo.” Later, he was affectionately known as “Uncle Boo” to many of his nieces and nephews. On the GI Bill, he furthered his education at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School of Business.
To Walter’s family, he was a charismatic presence, a spirited conversationalist and a complicated soul. He could unabashedly look in the mirror and say, “God you’re beautiful!” Walter and his wife, Nancy, hosted memorable Thanksgiving gatherings in their Bryn Mawr home. He is remembered for his helpful and adventurous spirit. Two notable memories include rescuing a bride by retrieving her forgotten bouquet and scrambling over rocks and down ravines, in suit clothes, to share childhood memories along the Erie Canal.
Professionally, Walter had a career in financial strategies and investments, earning licensure from Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. In his later years, he became a conservative columnist, with articles published in The Pilot, The Fayetteville Observer and a variety of web blogs. In addition to regional political commentary, he advocated for educational programs and empathized with the American Indian community.
Politics captivated Walter’s interest. He was a staunch Republican and active member of The Moore County Men’s Republican Club, serving on the board and program development. He contributed to the development of the Governor James E. Holshouser, Jr. Speaker Series. He had a special skill that brought in excellent speakers with timely topics.
Walter is survived by nieces; nephews; stepchildren, Randall W. Gray and Terrill R. Gray; six grandchildren; several great-grandchildren and friends across the country. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Nancy R. Bull; brothers, Donald A. Bull and G. Thomas Bull; and sister, Mary Perkins.
A celebration of Walter’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, at The Village Chapel in Pinehurst, followed by a short committal service in the Tufts Memorial Garden and a reception in Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Village Chapel Building Fund. Walter’s indomitable spirit and his commitment to community and conservative values will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Online condolences may be made on the Crumpler Funeral Home Website.”
