Walt Paluch 1956-2025

The North American heat treat industry has lost one of it’s most “colourful” members ever. Walt Paluch spent most of his working career as a Metallurgical Engineer including a long stint at what was originally known as “New Venture Gear” in Syracuse, New York, USA. Originally this transmission plant was part of  “Chrysler” before being acquired by auto parts giant “Magna”. During Walt’s years as head of the heat treat department, this location was one of the largest captive heat treats in North America with 14 multi row pusher furnaces and a variety of batch IQ units. This location eventually closed with some of the furnaces being moved to Mexico.
 
Anybody that ever met Walt will certainly remember him.
 

“Walter Paluch, 68, Tipperary Hill, Syracuse, passed away on April 24, 2025 at Francis House due to complications of dementia. Born in Chicago, IL, he was the youngest son of Ted and Wanda Paluch. He graduated from Lane Tech High School and attended Triton College. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in 1977 to play professional baseball and briefly became a scout for them. Walter pursued a degree in engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). He retired from New Process Gear in the specialized field as a Heat Treat Engineer. Walter later applied his technological skills and creative interests in various photographic and video production initiatives, including the establishment of Tipp Hill Photo and Video with his wife Lori, which specialized in capturing memorable moments of weddings, sports, and other special events. 

Walter loved playing baseball and didn’t hesitate to make a generous donation when a little league team asked for equipment, which even made a local news story. He was also happy to use his time and expertise helping others with computer issues and setting up Web sites. 

Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Lori Capels of Syracuse; brothers Theodore and Bruno of Chicago, IL; and son Steven Paluch of San Diego, CA; sisters-in-law Leslie Kravec of Camillus, Jody Boehm (Steve) of Syracuse, and Valerie Capels (Brian Shupe) of Vermont; several nieces and nephews; and good friend Chris Taylor. 

The family wishes to express deep appreciation for the compassionate care Walter received while at St. Joseph’s Hospital Unit 2-4 and Unit 1-5 as well as for the amazing and compassionate care he and the family received from the staff and volunteers at Francis House. 

Per his wishes, there will be no calling hours or services.”