Bobby Dale Wallace

Bobby Dale Wallace (Popeye) peacefully left this world to be with Jesus at 8:48 a.m. Monday, March 25, 2024, at Integrity Healthcare of Marion. 

Bobby was born June 23,1934 to Roy and Anna (Kendall) Wallace.  He was born and raised in Galatia, Illinois and graduated in 1952.  Soon thereafter, Popeye married his high school sweetheart, Shirley Heflin.  They moved to northern Indiana where he started employment with Inland Steel.  Unfortunately, he suffered a major accident in which over 70% of body was burned.  He was a true miracle as he was not expected to survive the night of his accident much less an additional 71 years.  He continued to work for Inland Steel for 23 years and raised four children: Sherry, (self-proclaimed Queen), Roger, Rodney, and Beth Ann.  During this time, he also enjoyed bowling leagues, skeet shooting, antique clock restoration and repair, bicycle restoration, Kentucky Wildcat fan as well as a St. Louis, Cardinal fan.    But his ultimate passion was car restoration and overall love for classic cars.  Health issues from his accident forced him into retirement in 1975.  He then moved his family back to Galatia where he continued to be greatly involved in the community.   Popeye was a trustee of Webber Campground Cemetery for nearly 30 years and Deacon of Cumberland Presbyterian Church for over 20 years. He has loved watching his 11 grandchildren and 23 great grandchildren grow and develop; always there with a smile, a hug, and, of course, lots of teasing.  

Bobby is survived by his four children: Sherry DeRolf of Pendleton, Ind., Roger (Debbie) Wallace of Marion, Ill; Rodney (Amy) Wallace of Harrisburg, Ill., and Beth Patterson of Martinsville, In.  11 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his spouse, Shirley; three brothers, Lee Wallace, Bill Wallace, and Ralph Wallace; three sisters, Edna (Wallace) Bush, Edith (Wallace) Bush, and Anna Jean Wallace; and one granddaughter Bobbi Jo Wallace.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 29,2024, at Sloan Funeral Home in Galatia at 11:00 am with visitation from 10:00 am until funeral hour. Burial will follow at Webber Campground Cemetery in Galatia with Pastor Danny York officiating. Nighttime visitation will be held Thursday, March 28, 2024, from 4:00-8:00 pm. at Sloan Funeral Home.  Donations may be made to Webber Campground Cemetery. Sloan Funeral Home of Galatia in charge of arrangements.