Sally Elizabeth Wallner

1932 - 2016

La Jolla Sally Elizabeth Wallner died peacefully in La Jolla, California on March 25, 2016, at the age of 83. Sally was born on November 7, 1932, in Mandan, North Dakota. Her father was an attorney and an agent for the U.S. Secret Service and her mother was a homemaker for her lively family of six. Sally graduated from Whitefish Bay High School in Wisconsin and thereafter became a flight attendant for American Airlines. While based in Dallas, TX, Sally met and later married the love of her life, Nick Wallner, a handsome young jet fighter pilot and Naval Academy graduate. The couple settled in Southern California and welcomed four children into their home. Her children remember her as a caring and nurturing mother who loved them without judgment and encouraged them to pursue their dreams.Sally was extraordinarily lovely, kind and compassionate. After training and working tirelessly as a certified medical assistant, she devoted herself full time to caring for her family, friends, and community. She was passionate about fellowship and sponsored countless young women during her over 50 years in the Program, where many still consider her practically a legend. During that time she also earned a degree in Psychology, which gave her greater insight and enhanced her efforts in helping others.When she wasn't caring for others, Sally led an active athletic and social life. She excelled at competitive water skiing in her youth, and was an avid tennis player and spirited snow skier as an adult. "Little Sal" and "Big Nick" were devoted Chargers season ticket holders and were known for their rousing annual Super Bowl party. Sally was unmatched in her ability to combine glamour with down-home authenticity. She also loved to learn and explore, and was fortunate to be able to travel with Nick to over 100 countries across the world. Sally's homes in Palos Verdes, Honolulu, Lake Tahoe, and La Jolla were exceptionally warm and beautiful and were always a welcome haven to family and friends. Sally is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Nick Wallner; her children, Scott Wallner and his wife Maria Master, Bruce Wallner, and Kim England and her husband Gordon England; her grandchildren, Ashley Armstrong and her husband Colin Armstrong, Kathryn Oshay, Brynn Wallner, Court Wallner, and Madison Wallner; and her great-grandchildren, Graham Armstrong and Elliot Armstrong. Sally is predeceased by her father, Joseph Sullivan; mother, Ruth Sullivan; brother, Joseph Sullivan; sister, Maryanne Williams; and her beloved son, Mark Brady Wallner.Among many others, the family would especially like to thank "Sally's Angels," Jeannette Guiloff, Marilyn Gamalong, Myra Bobea and Taylor Rork, and Seasons at La Jolla for their outstanding care for and kindness to Sally. Sally was truly a jewel and will forever be cherished and missed deeply by her family and friends. A memorial celebration and reception for Sally is scheduled for April 9, 2016, at 11:00am at the La Jolla Country Club in La Jolla, CA. Donny Mandell, Sally's long time spiritual advisor, will lead the memorial. Donations may be sent to the San Diego Alzheimer's Association, 6632 Convoy Court, San Diego, CA 92111. Please sign the guest book online at legacy.com/obituaries/ lajollalight . Sally Elizabeth Wallner November 7, 1932 - March 25, 2016