Wallace Cox

WALLACE (WALLY) COX FEB 28, 1924 - DEC 3, 2010 Died after losing a courageous battle with Parkinson's. Born in Modesto to James and Bessie Scott Cox, Wally as he liked to be called, was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Gertrude Cox, and 9 half brothers and sisters. He leaves his loving wife Joan Cox of 63 years and a sister Gene Cox. One son Craig Cox (Mickey), granddaughter Carrie Chaney (David), grandson Benjamin Cox, and granddaughter Brandy Conway Wright, six great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and hundreds of friends who morn his passing. Wally left Modesto High early to join the U.S. Army in 1943 to serve his country Wally proudly served with the 187 Glider Raiders 101 Airborne, 82nd, and the 11th Airborne Paratroopers in the Philippines and was one of MacArthur's personal body guards. After returning from war, he married the love of his life, Joan DeForest. That life long union lasted 63 years. Wally worked for Pacific Bell and retired with 32 years of service. A natural athlete, Wally excelled at any sport. Snow or water skiing, archery, trapshooting or golf, he did it all and did it well. He was the best of the best. Wally was a life member of American Legion Post 74, and a life member of Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 26. He also belonged to the Old Fisherman's Club, Escalon Sportsman's Club, ATA, and PITA trap clubs. He was a past member of the Elk's. Wally's ashes will be interned at Santa Nella Veterans Cemetery with full military honors. A celebration of life will be held at a later date to be announced after the holidays. www.modbee.com/obituaries