There are a number of things that I didn’t quite realize would be a part of helping to manage Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest. One of these things is the depth of love that I would be privileged to witness among the humans who support the sanctuary.
I truly feel that the fans and supporters of the chimpanzees are part of an extended family. I am regularly in awe of the people who come together to look beyond themselves, and the pain that is part of existing in this world, to support the chimpanzees who live at CSNW and their new opportunity for life in a true home.
At the end of last year, a group of people came together to support Bill Walters, a friend who was going through cancer. Nicki and Bill Walters have been supporters for the sanctuary for years, in addition to supporting other animal rescue organizations in Washington.
There was an outpouring of love for Bill, so his friend Ken hatched a plan to use the collective donations towards the building of a new structure on the hill. The Twister structure was born.
Bill and Nicki were able to come out to the sanctuary to witness the chimpanzees exploring the structure after it was complete. It was a heartwarming day for me to be able to spend even just a little bit of time with Bill and be there with him to see the chimpanzees enjoy the structure named after him.
Last week, Bill lost his battle with cancer. His obituary is here.
I know that Nicki and all of Bill’s friends and family will never be the same. With his fun-loving nature and easy charm, Bill changed their lives for the better and his passing is a loss for them and for this world.
Bill, and the love that his friends demonstrated towards him, will always be remembered at the sanctuary through the tall tower on the hill.
All of you have my deepest sympathy at the passing,
of Bill. Even though I didn’t know them, or you personally.
I am deeply touched by the passing of warm, generous man I never knew but I somehow feel a little connection because of the chimpanzees we all love. The Twister is a magnificent tribute, it will continue to give joy, peace, contemplation, enrichment, and pleasure for all the chimps, (even the new chimps to come!) and in doing so, this one silly looking TeePee structure will keep Bill alive and with his beloved friends for ever.
Don and I send our deepest sympathy to Bill’s family. He must have been so happy with the Twister. What a great tribute to an exceptional man. I wish we had known him in person but the tribute to his life speaks volumes. He definitely left the lives of 7 chimps and other animals better. May his soul rest in peace.
RIP Mr. Walters. Thank you for all you have provided for the chimps — especially your love. ????????
We are truly sorry to learn of Mr. Walter’s passing. He touched so many lives with his kindness and generosity. How special that he was able to come to the sanctuary and see the chimps in person. To his family and all who knew him, please accept our deepest sympathy.