Wally Armer '64

Walter was initiated into FIJI at the University of Arizona in 1961, and graduated in 1964 with a BS in Animal Science/Agricultural Economics. During his undergraduate years, he was actively involved in FIJI, as well as on the UA campus. Wally admits he didn’t have the best grades, but that made him lucky enough to be in two pledge classes, where he was able to serve as Pledge Class President. He also served as chairman of the Building Corporation in the ‘70s, where he was a part of assisting in decisions for the earlier remodel of the house. 

Following graduation, Walter was commissioned as a 2nd LT of Infantry and spent 2 years on active duty in the Army. He was then assigned to 8th Battalion 40th Armor, a Reserve Tank BN in Tucson. Walter served in virtually all staff and command positions, including Bn Commander. He graduated from Command and General Staff College and Army War College. Walter served in numerous assignments, until he ultimately retired in 1994 as a Colonel. He remained active on the UA campus following graduation, as he was the President of AG College Alumni Association, and AG 100 Support Group. Walter also served on the board of directors for the National Alumni Association and UA Foundation. He was honored to receive the Distinguished Citizen Award (1997), and the Bear DownAward (2004). As a 4th generation cattleman, Walter served as president of Southern Arizona Cattlemen’s Association, Arizona Cattle Grower’s Association, and was also on the board of directors of the Arizona Beef Council and National

Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Walter was honored as Cattleman of the Year in 2008. Along with all of his other activities, Walter also served on the board of directors of Arizona Historical Society, and had 2 terms on the Arizona State Parks Board. 

Currently, Walter is married to his high school sweetheart, Lew, and have been married since 1964. They have 2 children, Walter III (UA FIJI ’90), and Christy, and have 3 wonderful grandchildren. Walter is active in his own Agricultural Real Estate firm as a licensed broker and appraiser with the MAI and ARA designations. His family is also active in their family ranch east of Tucson.