Note: This article was a guest post by activist Tim Murphy.
The Chicago area pro-life community lost one of its most beloved and colorful figures on March 7 with the passing of Walter Schimick at age 77. Friends called the World War II veteran and retired forklift operator a “working man’s John the Baptist” for his outspoken style and unswerving, selfless dedication to the pro-life cause.
Wally with fellow counselor Cathy Meiding at Albany abortion mill [Photo by Marie Smith]
As a sidewalk counselor outside Albany abortion mill in Chicago every Saturday, Wally helped talk many women out of abortion, including a mother who later gave birth to twins. Wally would even give money out of his own wallet to help couples in crisis. He was a regular participant in League demonstrations.
As he was overcome by cancer, Wally remained upbeat, telling fellow counselors, “I’ll be back at the clinic with you soon.” The Saturday following Wally’s death, sidewalk counselors at Albany talked an astonishing five abortion-bound mothers into choosing life for their babies.
Wally is survived by many nephews and nieces and his devoted wife, Rita.
