Walter Logacz

Logacz, Walter S. age 77, of Columbia Heights, passed away September 14, 2012. Born in Maniewieze, Poland, Walter and some members of his family managed to survive WWII and immigrated to the United States when Walter was 15. He graduated from Columbia Heights High School in May, 1953, served 4 years in the U.S.Air Force, and graduated with a B.S. Degree from St Cloud State University. Walter, bopper in hand, taught U.S. History and American Government at Roosevelt High School in Minneapolis for 35 years. Wally cared deeply about educating young people and his students reciprocated with caring and respect for their teacher. He spoke fondly of the occasions that several students wrote stories about his positive effect on their lives and submitted articles to various newspapers to honor him.
Wally loved the city of Columbia Heights and its people, often driving into the city limits proclaiming he was entering "God's Country". He demonstrated his loyalty in many ways including his City Council service for 12 years, being an active member of the Lions Club and organizing the Columbia Heights Jamboree Parade for 19 years. Walter played an integral part in Columbia Heights Lomianki Sister Cities International. His many trips to Lomianki, Poland and his humanitarian work there, especially with the Children's Hospital, earned him an Honorary Citizen of Lomianki Award.
Wally was a bigger than life figure – outgoing, people-loving, generous, curious, fun-loving, intelligent, warm hearted and always a "philosopher." In his earlier days he used his gifts to make a difference through the political system, serving as Councilman, Anoka County DFL chairman, and on numerous local and metro boards. Later, he concentrated on charitable work, giving of his time and his financial resources. Throughout his life Wally loved to travel and visited 49 of 50 States, 6 continents, and many other countries.
Wally is preceded in death by 2nd wife, Patricia, parents Stanislaw and Stephania, brother Michael, and niece, Michele. He is survived by brothers Gregory (Sandra), John, and numerous extended family and friends.
Memorials preferred to Columbia Heights Sister Cities.
A celebration of Wally's life will be held at Murzyn Hall, 530 Mill Street N.E., Columbia Heights, MN on September 30, 2012 at 3:30p.m.
www.MillerFuneralFridley.com.