Walter "Wally" A. Taverna

Age 89, of North St. Paul, passed away peacefully February 23, 2026. Preceded in death by siblings, Richard Taverna, Nancy Nolen and Janet Taverna.

He will be sadly missed by wife, Linda; children, Wendy (Adam) Cavanaugh, Leanne (Mike) Koslowski, Richard (Margaret) Nielsen, Angela (Bob) Boever, Jennifer Nickolaus (Logan McClain) and Timothy (Michelle) Nielsen; 14 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren; siblings, Mary Maroney, Bob (Judy) Taverna and Marty Taverna; nieces, nephews, other family and friends.

Wally Taverna, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. He was a man whose steady presence, warm heart, and quiet strength shaped the lives of everyone who knew him.

He was a devoted husband — a true partner in every sense of the word. As a dad, he was a teacher, protector, and biggest supporter. As a grandpa, he found one of his greatest joys. His grandchildren will always remember his stories, his laughter, and the way he made each of them feel special.

He was a lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan and former season ticket holder, faithfully cheering them on through every season — celebrating the highs and standing by them through the lows. Sundays in the fall were reserved for football, often filled with spirited commentary, hopeful predictions, and plenty of purple pride. Wally was also a devoted Minnesota Twins fan. Whether listening to games on the radio, keeping score from his favorite chair, or cheering from the stands at Target Field, he rarely missed a first pitch.

He found peace and happiness in the simple, meaningful things in life. Fishing was more than a pastime; it was where he felt most at home — casting a line at sunrise, enjoying the quiet, and sharing the experience with family and friends. His cabin was his sanctuary, a place where memories were made, fish stories grew taller, and laughter echoed late into the evening. It was there that he built traditions that will live on for generations.

He will be remembered for his steady handshake, his unwavering love for his family, and the values he lived by: hard work, loyalty, humor, and kindness. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the stories he shared, and the family he loved so deeply.

He is survived by his loving wife, his children, his cherished grandchildren, and all who were fortunate enough to call him family or friend.

Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever be a blessing and a guiding light in our lives.

Please join us for a meal during the celebration of life.

A celebration of Wally’s life will be Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 4:00-7:00 P.M. with a time of sharing at 6:00 P.M. at Bradshaw, 2800 Curve Crest Boulevard, Stillwater.