Walter Bailey

Walter L Bailey, affectionately known as Corky, was born in Bismarck on August 23, 1943, to Walter M and Jean Bailey (Kuntz) and passed away on April 11, 2025.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Bismarck Funeral Home.  Family will be receiving guests one hour prior to the service. 

Walt attended Bismarck High School, where he was a proud member of the football team, drama club, band, and journalism staff. He holds the distinction of being the first wrestler to compete for the Bismarck Demons, as part of their inaugural wrestling team. After graduating in 1961, he attended Bismarck Junior College and then the University of Montana, earning a degree in History in 1966.

That same year, on July 16, he married Mary Jo Martinson.

Walt led a rich and varied life, full of curiosity, creativity, and community involvement. He was a proud member of the Elks Club, Lions Club, Governaires Drum and Bugle Corps, and the BJC Bagpipe Band. He also served as the first sheriff of the Westerners’ Club. Walt had a deep love for the outdoors—whether fishing, hunting, camping, or hiking—and had a lifelong passion for Louis L’Amour novels and John Wayne films.

Throughout his life, Walt wore many hats—EMT, ranger, lifeguard, cook, photographer, actor, writer, and Boy Scout executive. But his most enduring professional role was as a historian for the State of North Dakota, a position he held for 37 years. He had a particular interest in Western and Native American history and was especially fascinated by the life and legacy of George Custer. Following his retirement, he co-founded the Bismarck Historical Society, driven by his desire to share the story of Bismarck with all who would listen.

Walt is survived by his wife, Mary Jo; his children, Gary (Colleen) Bailey of Fargo, and Jeanne (Gary) Vetter of Bismarck; four grandchildren—Catherine, Cian, Joseph, and Bishop—and numerous nieces and nephews.

Walt was preceded in death by his parents, Walt and Jean, his sister Lorraine, brother Roger, and his eldest son, Walter E.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the State Historical Society of North Dakota Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Association.