July 25, 1938-September 24, 2025
Walter Hensen, 87, of Warren, Vermont, passed away peacefully at his home on September 24, 2025. Born in Herne, Germany, he was the beloved son of Walter and Emilie (both deceased) and brother to Gerd (deceased).
At just five months old, Walter left Germany with his family, settling in Elizabeth, New Jersey, where he spent his youth and completed his schooling. As a teenager and young adult, he worked in his father’s painting and wallpaper hanging business. Walter, his father, and his brother Gerd also shared a passion for soccer, playing competitively in the German-American Soccer League for the Elizabeth Soccer Club. In 1961, Walter decided to enlist in the U.S. Army.
He proudly served his country for six years, stationed in Crailsheim, Germany, before his honorable discharge in 1966. That same year, a ski trip to Vermont changed the course of his life. Enchanted by the Green Mountains, Walter soon made Warren, Vermont, his permanent home. There, with his beloved German shepard, Rommel, and two lively parrots, he began a new chapter that would span nearly 60 years.
Walter worked tirelessly to build a successful career in real estate, ultimately becoming one of Sugarbush’s most respected agents. Known throughout The Valley for his kindness, generosity, warmth, and brilliance, he touched countless lives. It was in Sugarbush where he met his loving partner of 25 years, Diana Eddy.
A passionate traveler, Walter frequently returned to Germany, explored Alaska, and enjoyed annual European river cruises with Diana along the Rhine, Danube, Seine, and Douro. The couple also cherished their winters in Naples, Florida, where the Arbor Trace community treasured his friendship. A seat at Walter’s dining table was always coveted. Though his life was rich with experience, he carried himself with humility, sharing his stories only when asked.
An accomplished pilot, Walter loved flying his Cessna 182 up and down the East Coas – to Maine for lobster, to Montauk’s rugged shores, and to his beloved Nantucket Island, where he spent meaningful time with extended family.
In addition to Diana, Walter is survived by son, Raymond Drake (Mary Beth); sons-in-law, Trevor Eddy (Leslie), Ralph (Laurie); grandchildren Jenna, Zachary, Alexander, Allison, Olivia, Charlie and Seth; great-grandchildren Henry and Benjamin; and sister-in-law, Peggy Hensen, nephew Chris Hensen (Alice), son Christopher, daughter Kaitlynn (deceased): niece Shannon (Steve) and three daughters, Emma, Elyse, and Ella.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Inn at the Round Barn on October 25, 2025, from noon to 3 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Walter’s memory to the Mad River Valley Ambulance Service: https://www.mrvas.org
