John “Johnnie” Lee Walla

John “Johnnie” Lee Walla, 84, of Fayetteville, died Monday, April 18, 2016 after a year-long struggle with many health issues. Johnnie was born in Ellinger on March 3, 1932, the son of Lee and Annie (Slanina) Walla. He graduated from La Grange High School in 1950. After serving in the U.S. Army, he was employed by B.F. Goodrich Tire Company in Houston. He married Mildred Becak on June 10. 1956. They lived in Houston then transferred to Beaumont where their four children were born. In 1974, he retired from Goodrich and joined the Pumpelly Tire Company as coowner. He had high expectations of his employees, but was always available to help them in any way needed personal or otherwise. He retired in 2000 to Ellinger, Texas his favorite place where he lived on his beloved farm. He raised cattle and worked tirelessly for St. Mary’s Church, Knights of Columbus #3168, Ellinger Chamber of Commerce and was also a member of KJT of Ellinger. His favorite activities was deer hunting and leading fund raisers. He was a champion raffle ticket salesman and even sold tickets to the nurses in the hospital while he was confined. He is survived by his devoted wife, Mildred; daughter, Elizabeth Miller and husband, Keith; son, Dr. John Walla and wife, Milissa; daughter, Jennifer Walla; daughter, Edye Shuff and husband, Todd; six much loved grandchildren and four wonderful great grandchildren; a good friend and sister-in-law, Doris Hechler; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation was held on Thursday, April 21, 2016 from 6:45 to 9 p.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Ellinger. A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Funeral Services will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 22, 2016. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com. Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home in La Grange was in charge of arrangements.