Walter Coston lived a life defined by dedication, curiosity, and quiet strength. A man of logic and deep commitment, Walter approached everything he did with care, organization, and a strong work ethic that carried him through nine decades of meaningful living.

Walter met the love of his life, Margaret Humphrey, on a beach in California at a church social event. Their connection was immediate, and just seven months later they were married, beginning a devoted partnership that lasted 64 years. Together, they built a life grounded in love, shared interests, and family.

Walter earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Physics, which laid the foundation for a remarkable career in the early days of computing. He began his professional life at Douglas Aircraft Company, where he was among the first generation of computer programmers. His work evolved alongside the technology itself—writing programs in machine language, then Assembler using punch cards, and later in C language on mainframe computers with tape decks. After moving with his family from California to New Jersey, Walter worked at Bell Labs (later AT&T), where he wrote software for the phone network. He briefly worked for NCR before returning to AT&T, where he ultimately retired after a distinguished career.

Walter grew up in Hoquiam, Washington, and later moved to Southern California to attend college, where he met Margaret. They lived in Redondo Beach before relocating to New Jersey to raise their family. Over the years, they made their homes in East Hanover until 1979, then in Holmdel until 2024, and later in Jackson until 2026.

Outside of his professional life, Walter had many interests that reflected both his active nature and his thoughtful mind. He and his brother shared a passion for genealogy and carefully documented their family history. Walter enjoyed hiking, camping, and yard work—proudly mowing his own lawn until the age of 89. He also loved square dancing and spent many hours playing Bridge and Chess. He and Margaret enjoyed attending plays at the local dinner theater and taking peaceful walks along the Keyport waterfront. An avid traveler, Walter visited many countries throughout his life, including Mexico, Canada, Sweden, Norway, Finland, France, Italy, Costa Rica, and Malaysia.

Walter was predeceased by his parents, Chauncey Coston and Thelma Coston; his brother, Jean Coston; his niece, Athena Gattshall; and his brother-in-law, Larry Gattshall.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret Coston; his daughter, Kimberly Miles; and his grandchildren, Shane Miles and Joelle Hayes. He is also survived by his son, Patrick Coston, and his wife, Phaick Yeoh; his sister, Carolyn Gattshall; his nephew, Eras Gattshall; and his great-niece, Ambyrlee Gattshall.

Walter will be remembered for his sharp, logical mind, his strong sense of organization, and his unwavering dedication to both his work and his family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched and the family he loved so deeply.