WALLA

Donald Lee Walla of Santa Fe, passed from this life Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019, in Webster. Don was born to Leander and Bessie (Wostarek) Walla Dec. 16, 1953 in Columbus along with his twin brother, Ron.

Don met his high school sweetheart Carolyn, and in 1976 they joined together in marriage.

He recently retired from Bridge, Structural and Ornamental Iron-workers Local 135 where he was a Journeyman and held the position of Officer and Trustee. He worked for Deep South Crane and Rigging Company where he was shop superintendent and dedicated his life’s work to fabrication for patents. He was an integral part of the fabricating and welding department where his true gift of creation shined bright.

If you could dream it, Don could build it. He loved spending time on their ranches where he and Carolyn raised cattle, horses and mules.

Don appreciated life to its fullest and became an organ donor to continue to help others. He was a loving husband, brother, uncle and friend who will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Thomas Walla, Kenneth Wayne Walla and sister, Carolyn Walla.

Survivors include his loving wife, Carolyn Houston; twin brother, Ronald D. Walla; sisters, Debra Michalke, Sharon Luedke and husband, Douglas; nieces and nephews, David Walla and wife, Megan, Nancy Kalmus and husband, Eric, Wesley Michalke, Cassie Luedke Tucker, Brian Luedke; great-nieces and great-nephews, Kaitlyn Walla, Maysen Kalmus, Miles Kalmus, Keaton Pike, Triston Tucker, Clayton Tucker.

A memorial service will be Saturday, Jan. 4, 2020 at 3 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus. Visitation will be Saturday from 2 - 3 p.m. Condolences may also be given to the family at www.hennekefuneralhome.com.