A public visitation for Walter was held Thursday evening at the school.
“This was his happy place, so it just made sense that we would offer this and be able to share his happy place with everyone for a final goodbye,” said Central Elementary Principal Karrie Gallo, who was close to Walter and his family.
People were given yellow ribbons to wear, many pinning them to their gray shirts that read “Superbubz.” Therapy service dogs were also on hand to comfort young children.
The boy’s brave struggle and buoyant attitude captured the hearts of the region as he was honored by major area sports stars, police departments, and enjoyed a special early graduation from high school courtesy of Fairfield Schools.
Walter loved school and superheroes and among his last wishes was to graduate from high school, which he did in a special ceremony at Central Elementary attended by more than 300, including some of his favorite costumed comic book heroes.
That special graduation ceremony “showed how it takes a village to raise a child,” Gallo said Thursday night. “We all came together and were able to help support one another and to fulfill his dreams.”
A funeral service for the 6-year-old will be private and limited to family and friends, school officials have said.
Staff writer Greg Lynch contributed to this report.
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