Wally was born to Charles and Artie Gears on November 14, 1920 in Minneapolis. He passed away peacefully on March 20, 2012 after saying goodbye to friends and family.
Preceded in death by son Gary.
Survived by loving wife Donna; sons Greg Gears (Lette), Cris Gears (Donna) and Greg Hagglund (Bitzy); and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren that were never far from his thoughts.
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After serving overseas in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Wally became a highly respected music educator, directing the Hopkins High School Choir for 32 years, where his students affectionately referred to him as “Uncle Wally.” A long-standing member of the Twin Cities Musicians Union, he was an accomplished musician who frequently played string bass with local bands ranging from the Jules Herman Orchestra to the Tom Prin Trio. During retirement, he took great joy in model railroading and was co-founder of a breakfast club for retired teachers know as “Breakfast 101”.
Wally will be missed by many, and will be fondly remembered for his thoughtfulness, charming wit and marvelous sense of humor.
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VISITATION
- Date: Friday, March 23
- Time: 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
- Location: Gearty Delmore Park Chapel, 3960 Wooddale Ave (@ Excelsior Blvd), St. Louis Park, MN
FUNERAL
- Date: Saturday, March 24
- Time: 1:00 pm
- Location: Lakewood Cemetery, 36th and Hennepin Ave S., Minneapolis, MN
Information provided by Gearty-Delmore Funeral Chapel.
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