NILES | Walter "Rusty" Makala, 63, of Niles, died at Cortland Regional Hospital on March 19, 2013 of health complications. Walter was born on July 13, 1949 at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan, to parents Walter Makala and Carolyne Denman. Walter was a 1967 graduate of Moravia High School. Walter was a serviceman in the U.S. Army after he graduated from high school. Walter was last employed by Simplex manufacturing, until his retirement. Walter is survived by his brother, Michael and sister, Shirley, as well as his partner in life of over 38 years, Edna Janes. The two had three sons, Jason, Chris, and John Makala. He is also survived by his daughters-in-law, Nichole and Kelly Besner. He has two grandchildren, Ayden and Riley Makala, also Chris and Morgan Besner. Walter loved nothing more in life than his family. He was a great father, partner, and a very proud grandfather. There will be a celebration of his life at a later to be determined date.
