Arnold A. 'Whitey' Walkama, 81

Arnold A. "Whitey" Walkama, 81, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2007, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

He was born April 11, 1925, in Vandalia, to Andy and Martha (Korhonen) Walkama. He attended school in Boulder.

He served in the Army Air Corps from 1943 to 1946, as a flight officer.

After the service, he attended Montana State University where he graduated with a degree in electronic engineering. He worked for the Bonneville Power Administration for 33 years.

Whitey was married to June Hapgood Perrine on June 8, 1963. She preceded him in death on Feb. 7, 2003.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife June in 2003, and a step son, Mike Perrine.

Whitey is survived by his daughter, Pam Altenburg and her husband, Bruce of Kalispell; a brother, Walt Walkama of Conrad; a stepdaughter-in-law, Sue Perrine of Columbia Falls; a stepdaughter, Sandra Perrine and her husband, Jim of Seattle, Wash.; a stepson, Gary Perrine and his wife, Beth of Kalispell; and a cousin, Ernie Mustonen of Washington.

The family has suggested that memorials be made to the Montana Veterans Home or to the Eagles Club in Kalispell.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are with the Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls.