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James WALENDZAK Obituary
News Death Notice
WALENDZAK, James S. "Wally" age 75 of Tipp City, passed away peacefully Sunday, June 23, 2013 at Hospice of Dayton. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Sharon; daughter, Vicki Rogers and husband Lee; son, Michael and wife Kim; four grandchildren, Rachel, Morgan, Ben and Emma whom he adored; sisters Kay and Valerie and brother, Ray. Wally was born on April 13, 1938 in Toledo, OH. He was a 1956 graduate of Clay High School. He enjoyed a 36 year career at Ohio Bell before retiring in 1992. Wally's many hobbies and love for people allowed him to make an impact on many over the years. Highlights included button making, photography, magic and balloon making. He volunteered 22 years as videographer for the Chaminade Julienne football program 1988-2010 for which he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2012. Wally will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends. His wishes included an anatomical gift to Boonshoft School of Medicine, Wright State University. Family will receive friends 9-11 am Friday, June 28, 2013 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 753 S. Hyatt St. Tipp City, OH. A funeral service will follow at 11 am in the church. Memorial donations may be made to the Dayton Area Diabetes Association 2555 S. Dixie Dr. Suite 100, Dayton, OH 45409 in Wally's memory.
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Memories and Condolences
for James WALENDZAK
Dan Brigner
July 1, 2013
Mike,so sorry to hear about your Dad, I know he was a great guy, your friend, Dan,
tom harker
June 30, 2013
peace be with you Jim.What a great friend you were to me over the tears.
Gunny
June 28, 2013
Mr. Walendzak was a great neighbor and friend to me when I was just a kid. He took me all over the Dayton area selling buttons, mugs, banners, etc. He gave me my first really good paying job in his basement making buttons. These good memories of him, and some of his crazy stunts like painting his grass green one spring, will stay with me forever. Mrs. W and family, I am so sorry to hear about your lose. Gunny
Jackie Jenkins
June 28, 2013
Wally was a great and funny guy. When we first met him at the nursing home all he did was tell jokes. You will be missed by many.
Chuck Szabo
June 27, 2013
What a great guy! I remember all the stairs and ladders Wally would climb to videotape the CJ football games. Because of him I am able to re-live a lot of my son's games. Wally always thought of others and not himself. He will be greatly missed by me and the CJ family.
Lora Vance
June 27, 2013
Wally was one of a kind. Even when it was so tough, he still had a great sense of humor, quick with a joke and a smile. Whenever you asked him how he was he would say "Great, and I'm getting better." I'm sure he is better wherever he is. He will be missed. Sharon, I am so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely, Lora Vance
Andy Cloyd
June 27, 2013
In middle school and high school, I probably spent more time at Wally's house than my own. A great guy who always asked how you were doing before you could even say hi to him. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the Walendzak family.
June 27, 2013
For Sharon and Wally's family,
When I first met Wally at a St. John's Festival, he wouldn't tell me his name and I was somewhat intimidated by what I thought was his gruff manner. As I got to know him, as he shared his gift of balloon art with the children at our Church Fish Fries, I discovered a very kind and generous man. My grandchildren were recipients of his ability to make amazing things out of balloons. I was able to visit Wally occasionally while he was in the nursing home after his fall, and I always left feeling uplifted. He had a sign on his bed that said if he was sleeping, please wake him up and I was always glad I did. Wally had a gift that he shared with all, especially the children and I feel blessed that I had the opportunity to get to know him.
Betty Voisard
Friend and Parishioner from
St. John's, Tipp City
Willis GOULD
June 26, 2013
I met Wally when I was contractor doing right-of-way for Ameritech. As part of the business we would have lunch together from time-to-time. We became good business friends and our friendship continued after his retirement. You will be missed by many.
Jane & Dave Collinsworth
June 26, 2013
Mr. Wally, we will miss you greatly. When we would come back to St. John's to visit, Rachel, Abbie & Andrew would always look for you to get and give hugs and were never disappointed. The gift that you gave Rachel in "ballooning" has benefited her in many ways - it's a talent that has come in handy! We know that you are with the angels in heaven, entertaining everyone there!
Guy Leisure
June 26, 2013
Wally and I met at Ohio Bell in 1972 and kept up a passing friendship. Wally brought joy to many people and always remembered to bring a smile to all. God Bless you Wally and peace to your remaining family. From another old telephone man, you will be missed.
Bob Heidkamp
June 26, 2013
I got to know Wally when we went to the state tourney in 1991. A great Eagle fan, and an even better person, Jim was a spiritual brother in button-making. As soon as the regional final game was over, we started cranking out "Back To Columbus Part II" pins, enough for everyone on the bandwagon at C-J. Wally also filmed our games, which are a treasure to have to watch this day. Rest in peace, Wally!
Ken Drill
June 26, 2013
Uncle Jim, My Godfather. You will be mised. I am glad your struggles are over. Everyone should be inspired by the fight you put up. Sharon, Mike and Vickie I am sad for your loss but also heartened by the love, patience and care you showed.
Ann Murrell
June 26, 2013
I just know you are having a blast where you are at now Uncle Jim. RIP
Robert Katcavage
June 26, 2013
Jim was a great friend and a very selfless person. My fondest memory of Wally was the times we spent with Little League Softball. I coached and Jim was always at the games as my sideline parent coach encouraging the young girls to do their best and videoing the games. He also made picture buttons, etc. of the girls that I still have to this day. I'll miss you Wally, and rest in peace old friend!
M C Barger
June 26, 2013
You will be greatly missed. May God be with you and your family
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