Walter Edward Lonnborg, Jr.

Walter Edward Lonnborg, Jr., affectionately known as "Buster," passed away peacefully on October 7, 2023, in Gulfport, MS. Born on August 21, 1947, in Englewood, NJ. Walt was a man of wisdom, intelligence, and adventure, who made a lasting impact on everyone he met. Walt moved to Jackson, MS, in 1955, and then to the Gulf Coast in 1964. He was a man of many accomplishments, both academically and professionally. After earning his associate degree from Perk College in 1967, he then furthered his education in law enforcement at MGCCC. He went on to graduate from William Carey University in 1981 with a bachelor's degree.  Professionally, Walt's career was as diverse as it was impressive. In 1981, while serving as the head of the Crime Analysis Unit at Gulfport Police Department he designed new programs and software for their first computer system, earning him the nickname "The Wiz" for his computer wizardry. He served as a Crime Analyst for the DIC Records Division of Gulfport Police Department from 1973-1982 and later started his own company and became the head engineer at Coast Management in 1986, a position he held until his passing. Walt also spent time as a self-employed promoter for Mississippi Gulf Coast Harley Davidson from 2012-2018, working alongside his brother. Walt was an active member of his community. He was a member of many community and leadership organizations during his life. In 1983, he became a Tennessee Squire and maintained this status throughout his life. He was also a part of the Pass Christian Alumni Association serving as their Pirate mascot. This led to him becoming a pirate and participating in numerous events and appearing on an episode of NCIS New Orleans. He was a man who loved life and lived it fully. He was known for his goofy and playful nature, always keeping busy and learning new things. He cherished spending time with his family, whether it was camping in Florida, teaching his kids how to water ski, or simply enjoying a day at the beach flying kites. He was always ready for a good boil, pulling out the pots no matter the occasion. Buster is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Barbara Lonnborg; his children, Catherine (Kenneth) Marshall, Walter Edward "Eddie" Lonnborg III, and Paula Lee (Steve) Hecko; his siblings, Janice McFalls, Merrill Lonnborg, and Ronald Lonnborg Sr.; his grandchildren, Samantha Markgraf, Nichole Kunkel, Kaden, Brock, and Brody Lonnborg, Wesley and Mason Forge, and Millie Hecko; and his great-grandchildren, Harper Jayne and Wylder David Markgraf. He also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Walt was preceded in death by his daughter, Brandie Michelle Lonnborg; his grandson, Jonathon David Sellars; his parents, Walter Edward Lonnborg, Sr. and Catherine Saul; and his brother, Harold Lonnborg.  Walt’s life was a testament to his wisdom, intelligence, and adventurous nature. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable journey. He will be deeply missed.A graveside service will be held at Bayou Coco Cemetery on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 11:00 am, Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Lonnborg family in their time of need and asks that you remember them in your thoughts and prayers through the days ahead.