Donald Eugene Wallace, 95, of Washington, passed away Tuesday, February 27, 2024.

Don was born July 28, 1928 to Elmer and Noma (Johnson) Wallace in Plumfield, IL.  He married Lenora J. Moore on May 3, 1947.  She preceded him in death.  Together they had 2 children, Karla (Jerry) Hippen of Germantown Hills, and Bryan (Michelle) Wallace of Bellevue.  He has 4 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

On January 22, 1980, Don married Carolyn Ward.  She had 3 children and 5 grandchildren, and several great grandkids.  She preceded him in death.  Don was also preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers, Richard "Dick" Wallace and Charles "Jim" Wallace; 2 sisters, Almeta (Benny) Gunter, and Vera Fay (Ted) Pavloff; 2 nieces, 5 nephews, and 2 step-daughters.

Don served 4 years in the U.S. Air Force in para-rescue during the Korean War.  He returned home to work at Caterpillar where he retired after 30 years of service.  He had a second career working for Robert Cottingham Property Management for over another 30 years.

Besides having two fulltime careers, Don also was a life member and past Commander of the Washington American Legion Post 100.  He served as Chief Steward, and was part of both the grievance and safety committees, and was the chair of the fair practice committee all during his career at Caterpillar.  Don was also part of the East Peoria Auxiliary Police and received the East Peoria Citizens Merit award in 2000.

Don's passion was playing music on the drums and guitar.  He was a member of multiple local bands over the years.  He even played a few numbers on the drums at his own 90th birthday party.  In his free time, Don enjoyed bowling on several local leagues.

Private services will be held.  Deiters Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, or to Special Olympics.