A native of the state, he practiced law in Salem and later served temporarily on the Oregon Supreme Court.

Walter Winslow was born in Polk County, Oregon, to Paris R. and Addie Wilson (née Vandevort) on October 29, 1882.

[2] Winslow then attended college at the University of Oregon in Eugene where he graduated in 1906 with a bachelor of arts degree.

[4] Winslow was appointed on a temporary basis as a judge pro tem to serve on the court in Brand's absence.

[2] Winslow married Lottie Deyoe (died 1961) in 1910 and had three children; Gertrude, Norman, and Genevieve.