Ewan “Wally” Wallace
March 19, 1933 — February 9, 2010
Wallace, “Wally” (Charles Ewan) on
February 9, 2010, after an inspirational
14-year journey with prostate cancer.
Wally was born on March 19, 1933 in
Carberry, Manitoba and grew up in
Castlegar, BC. In 1954, he enlisted with the
Royal Canadian Air Force and went on to a
distinguished 26-year career that took him
across Europe, North Africa, and much of
Canada. He was especially proud to have served
on the very first United Nations Peacekeeping
Mission to the Suez Canal in 1956.
In 1955, Wally married his Trail sweetheart, Joy Groslin,
and together they raised their three children.
Wally was an electrician by trade and well known and respected for his work
ethic and attention to detail. Once, during a driving rainstorm, he spotted
a fuel leak on an airplane that could have crashed but for his keen eye. For
that, he was awarded a rare Commendation for Excellence.
In 1979, Wally brought his many skills and sense of humour to the electrical
department at the copper mine in Princeton.
After 13 years there, Wally and Joy embarked on an epic retirement.
They traveled thousands of miles in their RV; golfed, cross-country skied,
and curled; made and drank wine; tinkered with all manner of appliances,
fixtures, hot tubs, and fish ponds; gave countless volunteer hours to the
Church, the Legion, and most especially the Princeton Golf Club (and not
just in the clubhouse!); and enjoyed the love and hospitality of family and
friends from coast to coast. One of Wally’s fondest memories was carrying
the Olympic torch in 1988, and he beamed as he watched Joy carry it on his
behalf in 2010.
Wally is survived by Joy, his wife of 54 years; his 100-year-old mother Mary
Wallace; his children Don, Kris (Andy Ali), Scott (Tracy); four cherished
granddaughters Crystal Bigelow (Trevor), Piper Ali, Miranda & Mackenzie
Wallace; and one adored great-grandson Mason Bigelow.
Also left to cherish his memory are his 95-year-old Mother-in-Law Alice
McDonald; his sisters Dorothy McMillan, Mima Quigley (Sam); his brother
Don (Marlene); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and very dear friends.
He was predeceased by his father Don Wallace and his big sister Ellen O’Leary.
In a life filled with adventures, Wally left no stone unturned;
no words unspoken; no heart untouched. At ease, soldier.
A celebration of Wally’s life will be held on
February 19, at 12:00,
at the Legion hall in Princeton.
In lieu of flowers, Wally asked that you consider a donation to
Prostate Cancer Canada. www.prostatecancer.ca
1.888.255.0333
Condolences can be sent to jolly4-ever@live.com