Willard E. Salter

Willard "Wes" E. Salter entered into the arms of Jesus on May 17, 2026. He was born on September 1, 1938 in Glen Cove, NY to Arnold and Hazel Salter. Wes proudly served in the United States Navy from 1956-58 where he spent a portion of his service aboard the USS Saratoga.

After a distinguished career, Wes retired as Senior Director from Fairchild Space and Defense where he was a pioneer of the aerospace industry. He was instrumental in, and devoted to his work within the newly developing satellite industry.

Having great passion for helping others,Wes faithfully attended Harmony Lutheran Church and was a volunteer with 'People Helping People' for many years. Wes is admired by family and friends alike for his unwavering kindness, compassion for others, and willingness to help those in need. A role model to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; dedicating his life to enriching the lives of those around him. He was a mentor to all who knew him and will be fondly remembered for his endless patience, wonderful sense of humor, and strength and wisdom with which he led his family.

Wes cherished weekends with family at his cabin in West Virginia and delighted in sharing stories about his time in the Navy, career at Fairchild, his love of airplanes as well as the adventures he had piloting his own plane.

Wes is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Yvonne; children Sheri (Doug) Williams, and Dean (Nancy) Salter; grandchildren, Jessica, Megan, Kristal, Nicole, Dustin, and Jake; and 12 great-grandchildren.

The loss of a genuinely good person is never easy; Wes will be missed.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 28 at Stauffer Funeral Home,1621 Opossumtown Pike, Frederick.