Walter “Fred” Emmett Blackman, 71, of La Grande, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2020, at his residence. A Graveside Service will be held at Island City Cemetery on Friday, November 6, 2020 at 10:00am. Casual dress is preferred by the family. Attendees must wear a mask and practice social distancing to meet COVID-19 guidelines. Walter was born on March 31, 1948 in La Grande, Oregon to Walter and Phyllis (Moss) Blackman. He resided in Albany, OR for 9 years and La Grande, OR. He attended Island City Elementary School, and La Grande Middle and High Schools. He later attended Oregon State University. He served our country while in the United States National Guard. He married the love of his life, Leslie Chadwick on September 23, 1967. Walter was employed with Northrup King for 9 years in Portland/Albany, OR, Farnam’s Auto Parts and Blue Mountain Auto Parts for 32 years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, ATV riding, horn mounting, anything outdoors and spending time with his family. He was a Hunters Safety Instructor for 20 years and earned several awards and acknowledgments. Walter is survived by his wife, Leslie; sons, Curtis Blackman (Candy) and Baine Blackman (Amie) both of La Grande; brothers, Randy Blackman (Ellen) of La Grande, OR, Tom Blackman (Betty) of Island City, OR, Bart Blackman (Amy) of NC; sisters, Elva Emmons (Mitch) of Eugene, OR and Teresa Moody (Ken) of La Grande, OR; 6 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren and 25 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Phyllis and several aunts and uncles.