Larry Wayne Wallace

larry wallace

July 16, 1948 ~ May 26, 2022

Born in: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Resided in: Arlington, Texas

Larry Wayne Wallace, 73, died May 26, 2022, in Arlington, TX. He was born July 16, 1948, in Oklahoma City, OK and was the first child of Charles and Jane Wallace. He spent his childhood in various cities across the globe, with his family supporting his father in the Air Force. Larry graduated from Rome Free Academy in Rome, New York, in 1966. He met his beloved wife, Mary Barbara Sauer, on a blind date at Oklahoma State University and they were married on January 26, 1974, in Oklahoma City. He went on to earn a BBA from OSU, a BBA in Accounting from North Texas State University, and an MBA in Finance from The University of Texas at Arlington. He started his career as a CPA in petroleum accounting at Texas Pacific Oil Company, served as Plant Manager for Sun Roller Corporation for 11 years, and served as a Property Tax Consultant for 17 years with Peyco Southwest Realty.
Larry was a much loved and active member of the Arlington community, serving Rotary International, Arlington Organization for Parental Education, the Ulster¬ Project, Indian Guides and Princesses, and was a founding Assistant Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop #222 at his church. He was a dedicated parishioner at St. Vincent de Paul, participating on the Finance Committee, as a lector, and with the Men’s Club and Marriage Encounter groups. He enjoyed skiing in Colorado, surfing in Costa Rica, adventuring around the U.S. with family and friends in his Airstream RV, traveling around the globe with his wife, and savoring any opportunity to spend time with his kids and grandkids.
Larry made friends everywhere he went and his loving, joyous spirit was felt by all who met him, including those who served his daily “senior” coffees and the owners of the local donut shop. His wife and kids were proud that their friends confided in Larry and sought his guidance and wisdom. Those who were lucky to have known him might describe him as the King of Kindness, the Baron of Bad Jokes, the Wizard of Wonder, the Maestro of Mediocre Mechanics, the Deacon of Dedicated Dads, the Guru of Glamping, the Usher of Unconditional Love, the Fosterer of Foolishness, the Chairman of Charisma, the Oligarch of Onions, the Badass of Boona Boona, the Royal of “Rookie Moves”, and the Guy who Goes North to Go South.
Surviving are his wife, Barbara Wallace; sons David and wife Erin of Arlington, and Dan and wife Kelsey of Denver, CO; daughter Mary Ellen of Austin, TX; and four grandchildren: Emma, Marly, Malik, and Bennett. He is also survived by his mother, Jane Wallace of Arlington, brothers Steve of Plano, Tom and wife Marsha of Arlington, and sister Nancy and husband Willie of Arlington. Larry is preceded in death by his father, Charles Wallace of Arlington, and his brother, Mike Wallace of Winchester, KS. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Catholic Relief Services, www.support.crs.org.
An Evening Visitation Service will be held from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., Friday, June 3rd at Wade Family Funeral Home in Arlington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, June 4th at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Arlington. Burial will follow at Emerald Hills Cemetery in Kennedale, TX. Wade Family Funeral Home, 4140 W. Pioneer Parkway, Arlington.

Please note that the family has requested that all guests wear masks to the services for Mr. Wallace. The family will provide masks to any guests who cannot arrange to have one. Thank you.

Larry’s funeral will be live streamed on Saturday and will be available here:

https://svdpcc.org/ Go to the Live Stream tab OR find the link to the YouTube channel.

 

Services

Public Visitation: June 3, 2022 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Wade Funeral Home and Crematory
4140 West Pioneer Parkway
Arlington, Texas 76013

(817)274-9233
wadefamilyfuneralhome.com

Memorial Mass: June 4, 2022 10:00 am

St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church
5819 W Pleasant Ridge Road
Arlington, TX 76016

(817) 478-8206

Interment: June 4, 2022 11:30 am

Emerald Hills Memorial Park
500 Kennedale Sublett Road
Kennedale, TX 76060

(817) 572-1681

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Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. Larry was a great man, and someone that I have called a friend for 30 years. God speed old friend!

  2. “The best things in life are the people we love, the places we have been and the memories we have made along the way.”

    Larry Wallace was the only friend I have that called me Stevie, he is the only person that I would allow to call me Stevie. I’ll miss you friend. Praying daily.

  3. To what is the best obituary I’ve ever read, I can only add that Larry Wallace was the Head Honcho of Hugs! The many facets of his life well lived will continue to touch lives for many years. RIP, friend.

  4. CandleImageLarry was an excellent boss, patient teacher, and good friend. He adored Barb and their children and mentioned them often at work. He was so sweet to my little girl that even 21 years later she was excited to spot him across the sanctuary at Easter Mass. He proudly introduced me to a grandson the last time we spoke. I can’t believe he’s gone so soon. God speed, Larry. I’m praying for the family to find peace and comfort.

  5. Dear Larry, i never got to meet you but i met your son Dave. For me that alone tells me what a kind and genuine person you must have been. Trust your son will honour your legacy. Dave to you and your family my sincere condolences. Always remember your dad when he and you smiled. That way he is in your heart forever. Blessings. Joe

  6. Although I did not have the pleasure of meeting Larry, I have enjoyed working with and befriending his son Dave. Larry being the “King of Kindness” makes sense. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Dave Wallace certainly is that as well in everything that he does. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

  7. CandleImageI will miss your smile, it’s hard looking in your office and not seeing you and Skye or you passing thru the workroom smiling and waving. You will truly be missed.

  8. CandleImageLarry, thank you for your guidance and friendship for all of the years. My husband and I were so honored to have you read at our wedding in September, you did such a beautiful job. We will miss seeing your smiling face every Sunday. May God Bless you and your family my friend.

  9. Dear Larry,

    You meant so much to Mary Ellen. It was such fun to see you together. I enjoyed your visits to Austin as well. You had such a welcoming nature. Rest well.

  10. I had the opportunity to meet Larry on several occasions through my friendship with Mary Ellen. I always thought they were a lot alike, and I see in the obituary some of the same titles that could apply to her. They had a strong, loving bond and she looked up to him so. He was always there when she needed someone, and his love and guidance meant so much to her. Please accept my heartfelt sympathies to all of Larry’s family and friends. Peace and comfort to you all.

  11. CandleImageMy heart is so heavy. I always loved catching up with Larry when he’d visit Austin. I’ll be forever grateful to Mary Ellen for introducing me to her amazing Father and can’t imagine the hole in her heart right now. Larry meant so much to her. You are in my mind and my heart.

  12. Larry Wallace will be missed by all his friends and family. I met him through his daughter. Larry and Mary Ellen had such a close, special relationship. I was fortunate to know him and spend so much time with the two of them. Larry always made me laugh – I’ll never forget his penchant for practical jokes. He was always ready with a smile and an encouraging word. I know he will be watching over Mary Ellen and her family.

  13. CandleImageOh, Lar-Bear – the world was so lucky to have had you in it and I was so blessed to have known you. So full of warmth, laughter and love for everyone you met. Thank you for giving me the gift of one of my dearest friends in the world, your daughter MaryEllen. You loved her well and taught her well. Sending much love to the entire Wallace family.

    Love, Kristi

  14. CandleImageBeing a close friend of Mary Ellen, I got to meet Larry many times when he visited Austin. I also feel like I know so much about him because of how much she talks about her dad, and how much his support and love meant to her. I know she and the family will miss him dearly. Much love to the whole family.
    Rest in Peace, Larry.

  15. Larry will be missed by all he knew, whether it was life long friends or those he had just met. I know how much Larry meant to Mary Ellen and her friends in Austin. It was always a good time when Lar-Bear came into town. Peace to him and the Wallace family.

  16. I am heartbroken for the entire Wallace family, and especially my dear friend Mary Ellen. I’ve known how important her relationship with her Dad is for both her and Malik. The three were quite the trio, traveling, exploring, laughing and creating memories.

    Rest In Peace, Larry. Your legacy for love and adventure lives on in the people who love you.

  17. I never got to meet Larry, but I’ve loved knowing him through Mary Ellen’s memories and stories. I know Larry meant the world to her. Sending peace, love, and comfort to Larry’s family and friends.

  18. CandleImageLare Bear, you meant so much to everyone. I don’t think you ever met a stranger and your kind heart and spirit touched so many lives. We are sad to hear of your departure, you will forever live in our hearts. Your daughter Mary Ellen is one of the best people on this planet and we know that is in large part from your many experiences and wonderful times spent. Thank you not only for your time with the Huerta kids, but also giving us the greatest gift in her. Love you!

  19. I’ve never known a father-daughter pair quite like my dear friend Mary Ellen and her dad, Larry. As long as I’ve known them the two were inseparable, best buddies and adventure companions. They even looked alike! Despite a few differences of opinion, they shared a mutual respect and admiration and an unwavering love and affection for one another. I know Larry will be watching over Mary Ellen and the rest of his beloved family, as he would not want to miss out on a single adventure or party! Larry’s beaming smile, gentle manner and kind heart will be deeply missed by so many.

  20. So many great memories of Larry.
    From the Duff kid’s birthday parties, to ball games, to Duff school events to seeing y’all at church…..Larry ALWAYS had a hug, a smile and a laugh! The memories all the Duff families and St Vincent families have of Larry are happy ones. God Bless you Barbara and the kids and grandkids!

  21. Dear Mary Ellen and family. I am sorry for your loss. Your father sounds like a lovely man and someone I would have enjoyed knowing. I wish you all well as you adjust to this big change. With love. Philip

  22. Still unbelievable,
    To all the Wallace’s my family’s heart and prayers go out for you all.

    There is still only one word that I can say. Probably the same for most who have to say goodbye to such a wonderful man.

  23. Our condolences to your family.

    Looking at the obituary and all Larry did over his lifetime from birth dash to death dash, he was a man of service to God and his fellow man. So outstanding to be dedicated to service as he was whether to family, church family, or his work speaks volumes of his kindness, generosity, and goodness. We are so glad God put Larry in our path—our interaction with him was a real plus to our Holy Land Pilgrimage.

  24. CandleImageLuis and I were devastated to hear about your death, Larry. You were his first landlord in Austin, which forever affected me because I wound up moving in down the street and being introduced to him by Dan. The river house weekend that you and Barb hosted us on is such a great memory. You were the grandpa supreme on that trip to my son, as well as your own grandson. I really appreciated that, as his grandfather on my side passed before his birth.
    Your relationship with Mary Ellen is so beautiful. I can’t say I’ve ever met another father/daughter pair as close as the two of you. You will see tomorrow how many friends she has who love her. You raised a wonderful woman, who is as generous as you.

  25. Larry was the happiest man I’ve ever had the wonderful joy of meeting. His smile was infectious and matchless. He will be missed by many.

    Rest in peace dear Larry.

  26. CandleImageDear Barbara, I am so sad for your loss. I have very fond memories of Larry and hope you cherish all your memories. Know you are in my prayers for the road ahead.

  27. We always had such great fun with Barbara and Larry whenever we visited them or they came to see us. Our kids got along like they were siblings. There will forever be a huge void without Larry in our lives! He was a one-of-a-kind!! Rest in peace, Larry. We love and miss you. 💕M & J 💜

  28. We knew Larry& Barbara through their
    daughter, Mary Ellen & Larry was always very friendly & any time we saw him we had a very plesant experience. I know how close Mary Ellen was with him. She & all the family have our condolences.

  29. One of my favorite memories of Larry in the 48 years I’ve known him, happened in April 2022. My sons, Matt & Will and I, met Larry, Barbara, Dan and Kiki in Steamboat Springs. The 7 of us had all out Nerf wars on and off for 3 days, between skiing, goofy card games and ‘hiding objects’ around the condo. Larry laughed and giggled like a first grader. His joy was contagious and delightful. My family will miss his smile, laughter and joy of life. God bless the Wallace family.

  30. The loss you feel for Larry is immeasurable but so is the love you feel now and always. His memories will be will quietly surround you. Please know you are all in our thoughts during this time. I so wish we could be there with you.

  31. I never met Larry, but being a friend of Mary Ellen’s I can see she got a lot of her wonderful qualities from him. I’m sure this is a terrible loss for her and all of the family and friends. Wishing all peace and comfort.

  32. CandleImageLarry was such a sweet man, caring dad and grandpa and a pleasure to be around. He will be so dearly missed… especially at the next Halloween Party. Sending big hugs and prayers to the Wallace family and especially Maryellen and Malik. Love ya.
    Kelly and logan

  33. CandleImageLarry was such a sweet man, great dad and grandpa and fun to be around. I’m so heartbroken that he has left this world. He was one of the good guys. Sending big hugs and prayers to the Wallace family and especially Maryellen and Malik. Lare Bear will be missed by so many.
    Love,
    Kelly and Logan

  34. Larry what an amazing, gentle man you were! Always smiling and loving on others. Your hugs were so genuine and sincere. You loved deeply and the respect and love you poured out on your family and friends will never be forgotten. Loved the way you always introduced your mom with such pride and joy! We know she will greatly miss you and your margarita parties with her every weekend! Praying for your beautiful family. Rest in peace dear friend until we meet again.

  35. My family and I will surely miss Larry. I’ve known him my entire life, and whenever he would come to Austin to visit MaryEllen, I would try to rush right over. He was always ready to give a big bear hug, and made everyone around him feel so worthy and loved. Love to the entire Wallace family! 💜

    Heather, Mark, Asher, Hazel

  36. Barbara, David, Mary Ellen & Dan

    I hold you all in my prayers and heart this evening. I pray you find comfort in the stories and memories of a great man until you meet again. Larry always had the biggest smile and warmest heart.

    Take refuge in each other and know he will always be in your heart. Love— Candace Carroll

  37. I have enjoyed camping with my best friend for many, many years. From when the kids were five years old in Indian Guides and Princesses to 12 days of backpacking in the New Mexico mountains at Philmont Scout Ranch. From large organized camp outs with hundreds of people to small group river canoe trips to weekend camp outs at the Bearden river house. I have a treasure trove of happy memories of the times we spent together. Two of them we talked about all the time. We were at the river house. Larry got up early to make himself coffee. When I got out a little later, Larry had a sheepish look on his face. I smiled and said that there must be an interesting story. He said he had started the coffee with Coleman fuel instead of water. We were camping at Philmont with our sons- a truly life changing experience. Dan had brought some homemade trail mix with him. Zack asked if he could have some and picked an item out of the bag asking what it was. Dan told him it was a big raisin. He took several. The big raisins were actually prunes. A short time later Zack was running through the campsite looking for the toilet paper. I miss my friend but he will always be a special part of my life.

  38. My wife Rachael and Mary Ellen go way back. I met Larry in 2014 while visiting Mary Ellen in Austin. He was welcoming and warm and I remember his smile. He bought us all lunch from Torchy’s. We shared good conversation and laughs. My deepest condolences and thoughts of strength go out to Mary Ellen and her family during this time.

  39. Dear Barbara, Dave, Mary Ellen and Dan
    I woke up this morning to the live stream of Larry’s funeral. Shock, panic and regret that we missed it; my heart aches for his loss so I can’t imagine the loss each of you feel. Larry was the most genuine and kind man I have ever known and the world is dimmer without his smile. His eyes lit up catching me up on each of you and your families when we ran into each other. And he always asked about each of my children and listened and asked questions because he really cared. He genuinely cared about people and intently listened; two qualities this world is so lacking. I am so deeply sad right now….sad for everyone that knew him. But I also am comforted because Larry was so firm in his faith. He lived it and there is no doubt we will see him again one day. Barbara, words seem so inadequate right now but know I am praying for each of you.


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