Wallace Jacob Murto

Wallace "Wally" Murto was born in 1933 in Chassell, Michigan, to Richard Murtovaara and Elma Jacobson. The youngest of five children, Wally grew up on the family's dairy farm in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Wally loved sharing stories of his childhood, often recalling how, during the harsh winters, he, his father, and his brother had to climb out of an upstairs window to reach the cows in the barn due to the deep snowfall.
After graduating high school, Wally enlisted in the U.S. Army, proudly serving his country. After his service, he moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he spent 35 years working at Northern States Power. During this time, he met Sharyn Faye Vick, and their love story began with a memorable first date to the Auto Show, where they saw singer Patti Page perform.
Wally and Sharyn married in 1961 and welcomed their daughter, Sara, later that year. Their son, Mitchell, was born a few years later. In 1968, the family moved from Richfield to rural Lakeville. They loved traveling together, often visiting the U.P. and taking road trips across the country-first in a pickup truck camper and later in a motorhome.
In 1984, Wally took over S.E. Vick Tool Company, a business founded by his father-in-law, Sam Vick. The company is known for its patented self-centering drill bit, the Vix-Bit. Wally remained involved in the company until his "official"retirement last year.
Wally and Sharyn adored their grandchildren, Shea and Riley, and treasured every moment spent with them. Wally particularly enjoyed his afternoon "errands," which included stops at Leo's Bar and the End Zone. Wally was known for his dry sense of humor, frequently holding court and entertaining with his many stories. A bit of a prankster, he delighted in telling tales with intentionally inaccurate details, waiting with a wry smile as someone attempted to correct him. In the evenings, Wally dominated the remote control, tuning in to any and all sports. He had a particular love for hockey and football-both of which he played in high school.
Wally will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 63 years, Sharyn; his children, Sara (Roy) Overstreet and Mitchell (Kristina) Murto; his grandchildren, Shea and Riley Overstreet; and many extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Elma, in-laws Sam and Ruth Vick, and siblings: Marie Clark, Margaret Olson, William Murto, and Eunice Murto.
A celebration of Wally's life will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 1:00pm at Christiania Lutheran Church, 26691 Pillsbury Ave, Lakeville.