About This Memory Space
This page was created for Walter Walt Kay's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Walter Walt Kay's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Walter Walt Kay. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Walter 'Walt' Herbert Kay, Jr. crafted a vibrant life marked by unyielding determination, a passion for speed and safety, and an infectious zest for storytelling that captivated all who crossed his path.
From his early days in Dayton, Ohio, amid the hardships of the Great Depression, Walt developed a relentless drive that propelled him through diverse pursuits. As a boy, he hustled with odd jobs like tidying barbershops, stocking drugstores, and fueling cars, later teaming up with his brother to caddy grueling rounds at Meridian Hills Country Club. His adventurous spirit shone in the Navy during the Korean War, where he served aboard the LST 515, enduring wild Atlantic storms that tested his grit. Post-service, he chased thrills racing jalopies at the Indianapolis Speedrome, fueling a lifelong devotion to motorsports from NASCAR to the Indy 500. Photography became another outlet, leading him and brother Larry to launch a camera shop at what became Lucas Oil Raceway Park. Walt savored simple pleasures too—tending his backyard oasis, diving into card and board games, exploring history, tracking politics, and snapping photos that preserved fleeting joys. Known for his bold candor and independence, he met his extended cancer battle with unwavering cheer and sage tales right up to the end.
Walt's professional path revolved around construction, heavy machinery, and job site operations, where he pioneered as Indiana's first Bobcat salesman while sharing encyclopedic knowledge of Indianapolis landmarks. At Jack's Tool Rental—later Runyon Equipment—he supported racing efforts with Team Runyon and Hemelgarn at the Indy 500 from 1989 to 1995. In retirement, he channeled his expertise into OSHA outreach training, educating over 7,000 workers and inspecting countless sites to elevate safety standards across the region's construction sector.
Photos of Walter's Life
Family & Loved Ones
Walt's world revolved around the enduring companionship he found with Sharon, his wife of 33 years, whom he joined in gardening and quiet backyard retreats he dubbed his personal paradise. His five children from earlier unions—Michael Kay, Brian Kay (Julie), Karen Rodgers, Victoria Kay (Graeme Hunter), and Maria Bailey—filled his life with pride, alongside 15 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. Through Sharon, he embraced her children Donald Runyon (Helen) and Deborah Hamilton (Timothy), gaining five more grandchildren and five great-grandchildren in a blended tapestry of affection. A surviving sister, numerous nieces, nephews, and steadfast friends rounded out his circle, while he was predeceased by parents Lametta and Walter H. Kay Sr., brother Lawrence, and one grandson.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Tributes from Walt's circle weave a vivid portrait of a man whose tales of adventure, sharp wit, and generous spirit left an indelible mark on everyone from family to fellow racing enthusiasts.
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