Wallace Den Herder's Obituary
Wallace was born on October 3rd, 1937 in San Diego, California to Walter and Lorene Den Herder. He had four sisters Clara Ruth, Leanne, Betty, Maureen and his brother, James. To his friends and family, he was known as ‘Wally’ or ‘Grandpa’.As a young man, Wally learned to love working the earth as a ranch and farm hand in Arizona and Iowa. It was a passion that he carried with him throughout his life. After some college, he worked as a computer operator for United Air Lines in Chicago, then served his country as a Marine in 1958 and had earned the rank of Corporal when honorably discharged in 1961. Two years later, Wally married Carol. Wally and Carol had five children: Dodd, Missi, Trisha, Jeff and Lisa. His legacy continues with eleven grandchildren, all of whom he adored.Wally enjoyed many happy years with Sandi and the memories they made will be cherished by Sandi always.He returned to the computer field and worked nights as a Computer Operator for General Dynamics Astronautics – Convair.At the same time, Wally pursued his love of flight. He achieved his pilots’ license, and worked as a flight instructor for El Cajon Flying Service and American Flyers, and as a self-employed charter pilot until 1971. Later that year Wally began working in the construction field.By 1975, Wally had enough experience in carpentry and home remodeling to obtain his General Contractor’s license, so he started his own business, Den Herder Construction. His attention to detail and custom home designs earned him the respect of his peers. His honesty and commitment earned him the loyalty of customers who became his lifelong friends.Organic farming, chickens, bunnies, aircraft, photography, a love of the outdoors and most especially spending time with his grandchildren were his favorite pastimes… Wally never met a stranger and he befriended many at the conventions he frequented.Wally’s greatest passion was a very real love of Christ Jesus and the Truth. His desire to know the Lord and do His work revealed his deep faith and true character.
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