Wallace Eugene Kirchhoff placed his trust in God’s will and word, and left this earthly world on December 28, 2022 at the age of 94, enjoying the company of family and friends for all the years of his life.
Six months prior to his death he lost the love of his life, his wife of 73 years, Dorothy. Finding it difficult to recover from her loss, he spoke bravely about his faith in God and his desire to be re-united with her in the eternal home he knows as Heaven. He prayed that his life was worthy of God’s forgiveness and acceptance and that they would be together again. Wally was a hard-working man; proud, dedicated to many causes, caring, loving, and sympathetic to those that faced adversity. He was appreciative of those that spent time caring for him and lending support and sharing their love.
Wally’s funeral will be held on Friday, January 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Saint John’s United Lutheran Church in Alliance, NE with the Reverend Megan Morrow and PMA Maurine Roller officiating. Interment will take place at the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery with full military honors following the funeral service.
Wally was born in Bayard NE on August 28, 1928 and graduated from Bayard High School in 1946. His parents were Edward and Martha Kirchhoff who passed away in 1964. He was the youngest of five children. Wally worked and played hard, from the farm to the football field and track, he was a solid student and athlete. He served as the junior and senior high school class president and was a distinguished member and soloist in the choir. In his final weeks living at Highland Park Care Center, he could be seen near the fireplace softly singing Christmas carols and church hymns much to the delight of residents, staff, and family.
Wally and Dorothy were married on July 18, 1948. Wally worked as a meat cutter for Safeway before his induction into the US Army in 1951. He served in combat in Korea in the 73rd Engineer Combat Battalion. He was awarded several service medals including the Meritorious Unit Commendation for his duty in clearing five enemy minefields, with a bayonet, while crawling on his hands and knees, under fire from enemy mortar attacks and fire from enemy soldiers. He was Honorably Discharged at the end of 1953 and served in the ready reserve through 1960.
Upon return from Korea, Wally and Dorothy lived in Alliance. They welcomed their son Ken, into their family in 1954. Wally managed Basketeria Grocery Store and Decker’s Food Center until 1968 when he went to work for Harris Sales, where he worked for 50 years, finally retiring at the age of 90. Wally dedicated his life to family, friends, work, and community. He was a member of the Alliance Volunteer Fire Department, VFW, American Legion, Eagles, Lions Club, and Saint John’s Lutheran Church. He enjoyed square dancing, golf, playing cards, attending community events including sports, plays, musicals, and school programs. He helped deliver Meals on Wheels, serving at church functions, and serving on the church council. He especially loved following as many events as possible of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Wally is survived by his son Ken (Nancy) of Fort Collins, CO; grandchildren Amy Reynolds (Andy) of Fort Collins, CO; Betsey Kirchhoff of Wellington, CO; and Brian Kirchhoff (Avery) of West Palm Beach, FL and his great-grandchildren, Kayla and Allie Reynolds, Jasmin Kirchhoff, and Ryder Kirchhoff.
Wally was preceded in death by his wife Dorothy, brothers Lloyd and Doug Kirchhoff, sisters Marion Bowers and Bernice Schanhols.
Memorials may be made to the Kirchhoff family for distribution to Wally’s favorite causes. Memorial donations may be mailed to Ken Kirchhoff, 2118 Dover Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80526.
Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com Bates-Gould Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.