Born in Fresno, he was the youngest of thirteen children and grew up in Torrance, California, where he quickly learned how to make himself heard in a large family.
In 1954, he married his true love, Janice, and together they returned to Fresno to build their life, raise their children, and fill their home with laughter, stories, and a steady stream of relatives and friends who always felt welcome. Their door was always open to anyone who wanted to stop by for a visit or a good chat.
Wally could talk about anything and everything—for hours upon hours—and his stories were as much a part of him as his laugh. Whether recalling adventures from the tire shop, debating the Dodgers pitching, or reliving one of countless hunting and camping trips, Wally’s anecdotes were legendary. Those trips became a beloved family tradition—filled with early mornings, campfire laughter, and tales that grew a little taller each year—proving that Wally never let the truth get in the way of a little embellishment.
For more than 50 years, he owned and operated Wally’s Tire and Wheel in Kerman, California, where he was known for his work ethic, and generous spirit. Customers might have come in for tires, but they left with advice, a laugh, and a good joke. That was Wally—funny, a little mischievous, and impossible to forget.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Janice Ihde. He is survived by his brother, William “Bill” Ihde, and by his five children: Sheri Foglio (Ron), Sheli Klein (Jeff), Steve Ihde (Kim), Sandi Shafqat (Jon), and Susi Bishop (Norm). Wally was a proud grandfather to Dina, Daniel, Jeff, Jennifer, Stefanie, Steven, Erin, Gracie, Hayley, Ryan, and Matthew, and a cherished great-grandfather to Destani, Michael, Amara, Jak, Noah, Addyson, Austin, Talyia, and Jordan Jon.
Wally will be remembered as a master storyteller with a quick wit, a generous heart, and a legacy of laughter that will live on in every story retold.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your favorite charity in Wally’s memory.
