Walter Herzig, 90, of Walton, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 31, 2015, with his best friend by his side.

Walter was born in Berlin, Germany on July 12, 1925. At the age of 16 he was hidden from the Nazi Party at the St-Pierre de Fursac Chateau de Chabannes, an orphanage in Vichy, France. It was from there that Walter took the first steps to what would be his life’s vocation by studying hotel and hospitality.

While in his twenties, Walter came to the United States via the Queen Mary. When the ship docked in New York City, Walter found a job with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus as an Interpreter for the 1949 tour. That year the circus traveled over 18,000 miles, to over 120 cities, and was enjoyed by nearly 3,500,000 people.

Later, Walter worked at many of Cincinnati’s finest restaurants; from the Gourmet Room, Queen City Club, and the Maisonette. He also owned and operated a restaurant and catering business.

Walter is survived by his adopted family, Mary Marcum (Tony), Jarred Marcum, and Josh Marcum. He will be greatly missed by many dear friends that he has known throughout the years. He will be remembered as a man of great character, who overcame many hardships.

Walter was a Kentucky Colonel; he loved to travel and had a great affection for both dogs and cats.

Visitation will take place on Friday, September 4, 2015, at MIDDENDORF FUNERAL HOME, 3312 MADISON PIKE, FT. WRIGHT, KENTUCKY 41017, beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of services at 1:00 p.m. Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Ft. Mitchell, Kentucky.

Memorial donations are suggested to: Boone County Animal Shelter, 5643 Idlewild Rd, Burlington, Kentucky 41005. Online condolences may be left at www.middendorf-funeralhome.com.