Wallace Van Guilder

Wallace "Wally" Van Guilder, 79, passed away peacefully at his home on Jan. 3, 2009, in Brainerd. At Wally's request, his life will be celebrated privately by his family.

He was born June 24, 1929, in Milwaukee, the son of Lloyd and Ruth (Emerson) Van Guilder. His family moved to the Twin Cities area, where he grew up, graduated from high school and entered the Army. He then worked in construction for many years.

He was united in marriage to Patricia Malgay in 1968. They have lived in the Brainerd area since 1969. He was postmaster for over 25 years, first in Nisswa, then in Motley. He was a member of the Brainerd American Legion. After retiring, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, sports - especially football - and "B.S.ing!"

Wally will be missed by his beloved wife, Pat; daughter, Dawn Malecha, of Woodbury, Minn.; son, Mark (Tia) Van Guilder, of East Gull Lake, Minn.; brother, James (Marian) Van Guilder, of Eden Prairie, Minn.; special friend, Jodi Heckel; and lifelong friend, John Rugloski. He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Irene and Donna; brother, Donnie; and beloved dogs, Pumpkin, and hunting dog, Bill.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Funeral Chapel of Baxter.