Donald P. “Don” Wallace Jr., age 51, of Marysville, died unexpectedly on Saturday, March 2, 2024.
On March 27, 1972, Don Jr. was born in Marysville, Ohio, the fourth of five children (and only son) of the late Bonnie Jo (Bright) and Donald P. Wallace Sr. He graduated from Marysville High School in the class of 1990.
Following graduation, Don started his working career at United Rotary Brush in Marysville. He then worked his way up in Scotts, from scraping the floors to becoming a Director of Business Application Services. At each step with Scotts, Don would learn more and more about the company and their IT needs, making him an asset to the organization. Over the years, he traveled the world working on IT projects. He was dedicated to the Scotts Company for just under 30 years.
Don believed in the motto, “work hard and play hard”. Whenever he was away from Scotts, his favorite pastime was hitting the open road on his Indian motorcycle. He rode all over the United States, including trips to New York, Arizona, Louisiana, and taking thrill seeking rides like the “Tail of the Dragon” in the mountains of North Carolina and Tennessee. Whether embarking on cross-country journeys or simply cruising through the countryside, he found solace and joy in the company of fellow riders, united by a common love for the freedom and exhilaration of the ride. Perhaps what defined Don most was his fearless spirit when it came to taking risks. He thrived on adrenaline, seeking out thrill rides and daring adventures that pushed the boundaries of excitement. Don lived life to the fullest, seizing every opportunity for adventure with unwavering courage and enthusiasm. Embarking on spontaneous road trips to unknown destinations, he embraced the thrill of the unknown with open arms, his spirit shining brightly in the face of adversity.
Don was a devoted fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Cincinnati Bengals, and Columbus Blue Jackets. His enthusiasm for these teams knew no bounds, and he could often be found cheering for his favorite players, dressed in team colors, and celebrating victories with friends and family. Beyond the realm of sports, Don had an eclectic taste for music, particularly the rocking sounds of the 80s and 90s. Don’s interests extended far beyond the realm of sports and music. He was also an avid gamer, finding endless enjoyment in mastering the challenges presented by various video games.
With all of Don’s world traveling and life experience, it gave him a unique perspective on things. He developed strong opinions and he was never bashful about sharing them. He shared his life advice freely and often with his children, and nieces and nephews. He wanted his family to get a leg up in life, and he would share some of his tricks to help them accomplish it. He also was a self-proclaimed history buff, which he could talk about for hours with his friends and family.
Anyone who knew Don, knew he loved his family. He overflowed with love and respect for his parents, especially his father Don Sr. He loved to drive his sisters nuts, which was his own unique way of showing them how much he cared. Encouraging and supporting his kids in all they did. He also had a great sense of humor that will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Don leaves behind a legacy of courage, perseverance, and unwavering determination, forever etched in the memories of those who had the honor of sharing the journey of life with him. Though he may be gone, his spirit will live on in the wind that whispers through the trees and the rumble of engines on the open road.
Left to cherish his memory are his four children: Jacob (Sim) Diehl of Florida, Elijah “Eli” (Nicole) Wallace of Tennessee, Emily Fox-Wallace and Derek Wallace, both of Marysville; three grandchildren: Roman, Leo and Lilly; three sisters: Tina (Mark) Newport of Marysville, Paula (Pete) Cooper of Marysville, and Lori (Jim) Simpkins of Marysville; numerous nieces and nephews; and his former spouse, Melanie Wallace.
Including his parents, Don was preceded in death by his sister, Dee Ann Clark in 2020.
His family will greet friends from 3 – 7 pm on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at Ingram Funeral Home, 975 N. Maple St., Marysville. Services honoring his life will also be held there on Thursday at 11 am, with his cousin Pastor Michael Wallace officiating. Following his services, his motorcycle friends will be revving their engines and going on a tribute ride and procession to Scottslawn Recreational Park, where a light memorial luncheon will be held for Don.
Memorial contributions may be made to Special Olympics Ohio (https://support.specialolympics.org/a/ohio), the organization that has meant so much to his son, Derek, and their family.
Ingram Funeral Home is honored to serve Don’s family and your condolences may be expressed to them by visiting www.IngramFuneralService.com.