May 1, 1921 – February 26, 2020
Dr. Walter Krebs, 99, of Grants Pass, passed away Wednesday, February 26, 2020, weeks short of his 100th birthday.
Dr. Krebs was born in Seattle, Washington. He graduated Queen Anne High School in 1939, attended the University of Washington (1939-1940), and Washington State University (1940-1944), graduating in January 1944 with two degrees, Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine. He was a private in the U.S. Army Specialized Training Corps for two years at WSU during WWII.
In August 1944, he married Geraldine McNeal in Wenatchee, Washington. They were married more than 75 years. They settled in Grants Pass, built the Redwood Veterinary Hospital, and operated the hospital from January 8, 1948, until Dr. Krebs retired in October 1989.
Dr. Krebs was called back into the Army for two years during the Korean War, 1952-1954.
Dr. Krebs was a member of the Josephine Fair board for 12 years and the Josephine County Board of Health. He was President of the Oregon Veterinarian Medical Association 1973. He was President of the Grants Pass Lions Club (1996-1997) and a 50 year member. He was president of the Grants Pass Nordic Club (skiing and outdoor trips). He was a member of the St. Anne Catholic Church Bible Study Group.
He had many hobbies including hunting, fishing, rafting, RVing, and flying small airplanes. He traveled to Nepal, Africa, Russia, Tahiti, Kauai, Antarctica, Peru, New Zealand, British Columbia, Alaska, and many European countries.
Survivors include his wife, Jerry Krebs; children, Dr. Karen Ireland (Jeff), Kristine Gill (Dwight), and Dr. Karl Krebs (Judy); two grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and three older brothers. Dr. Krebs died weeks short of his 100th birthday.
Contributions in his memory can be made to St. Anne Catholic School, Wildlife Image, Grants Pass Lions Club or the organization of your choice.