Wallace R. Smith, 85 of Diamondhead, MS passed away on Thursday, December 25, 2008 in Hospice Care at Veterans Hospital in Biloxi.
Mr. Smith was born June 3, 1923 in Duluth, MN.
Mr. Smith is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Shirley Stengelsen Smith, of Diamondhead; two daughters, Sharon Tonn (Ralph-deceased) of Wilmington, NC, and Nancy Rosenberger (Michael) of Middleton, WI; three grandchildren, Jennifer Merlet (Michael) of Verona, WI, Kristine Tonn and Adam Tonn (Jessie) of Leland, NC; three great grandchildren, Ryan and Megan Merlet, and Mary Elizabeth Tonn; his brother, Eugene Smith of Elwood, IN and three nieces, Sandy, Mary and Kelly.
Mr. Smith was preceded is death by his parents, Jack and Lucy Smith and son in law, Ralph Tonn.
Wally graduated from Denfeld High School in Duluth where he was a high school All American in football. After graduating early from high school he served valiantly in WWII in the 2nd Marine Division and was seriously wounded in the Battle of Tarawa and earned a purple heart. After returning from the service he graduated from University of Minnesota with a degree in education. He coached and taught in Faulkton, SD prior to going into private business in Middleton, WI. While in Middleton, Wally was active in civic organizations and was a member of St. BernardaÌââ¢s Parish.
Wally and Shirley retired to Diamondhead, MS in 1988 where he was active in golf and enjoyed fishing. He was a member of St. Williams Catholic Church. Wally was a loving and devoted husband and father and was known for his sense of humor which was with him until the end. He will be sorely missed by all.
A private interment will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery followed by a mass for the family at St Williams Catholic Church celebrated by Fr. David Hamm.
On February 6, 2009 friends may greet the family at RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, Kiln Delisle Road, Pass Christian, from 1:00 until the Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m., officiated by Fr. David Hamm. Coffee and refreshments will follow.
The family request memorials made to the Hospice Unit at the Biloxi Veterans Administration Hospital, 400 Veterans Avenue, Biloxi, 39531.
The obituary may be viewed and the guest book signed at www.riemannfamily.com.