Wally J. Gomez

December 12, 1946 - May 17, 2024

It is with great sadness we share the loss of our much loved Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Uncle, Wally Joseph Gomez. Wally died in his home under the care of his family on May 17, 2024 at the age of 77 years old. He had fought four valiant rounds of cancer over the course of 15 years, but this fifth and last bout was too fast and aggressive, and exacerbated by other health complications.

Wally was born on December 12, 1946 to Elijio “Lee” Gomez and Ann Marie Mendez in Toppenish, WA, where he grew up. He is preceded in death by his parents, as well as his siblings Tony Gomez, Angie Valdez, and Theodore Gomez. He is survived by his daughters Stefana Welker (Tyson Welker) and Andrea Gomez, step son Jay C. Burk (Kagna Burk), granddaughters Iliana and Tuula Welker, his sister Gloria Garza (Adan Garza), as well as several nieces and nephews, notably his niece Theresa Garza who assisted in his care in his final days.

Wally created a lifetime of wonderful memories with his family, colleagues and friends. His career was devoted to the trucking industry, beginning with his first job at Gomez Truck Repair where he worked alongside his father and brother Tony. In 1966 he was drafted into the Army and spent a year in training at Ft. Ord in California before spending a year serving in Vietnam. Upon his return, he returned to work with his dad before striking out westward for a long, fruitful career, raising his own family, and making lifelong friends along the way.

Wally was very active at Christ Community Baptist Church, where he joined a bible study group, and was instrumental in his work with Kairos Prison Ministry. He had a strong faith in Jesus Christ and knew he would spend eternity in Heaven.

He was so very loved, and will be so very missed.

The memorial service for Wally will be on Saturday, June 29, 11:00 AM, at Christ Community Baptist Church, immediately followed by a Celebration of Life.

8016 176th St E, Puyallup, WA 98375

His burial will be in September (date TBD) at the Zillah Cemetery.