Remebering Walter Carl “Wally” Garland
Walter Carl “Wally” Garland, 69, of La Conner, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, at home. A celebration of life will take place later this spring.
Wally was born on Oct. 21, 1955 in Omaha, Neb., and he was raised in Huntington Beach, Calif. by his parents William and Marian Garland. In 1976, Wally joined the U.S. Army where he served as a mechanic while stationed in Germany.
After his time in the military, Wally moved to Seattle where he went to college and started a career in sales. While living in Seattle, Wally met and married Kelley Woods of Lake Sammamish. In 1980, the couple moved to La Conner and raised two daughters. Wally and Kelley owned and operated the children’s store Dinghy Baby and were active in the La Conner community. Wally also served on the La Conner Volunteer Fire Department for 25 years where he forged lifelong friendships.
In his later years, Wally found rewarding work as a Veterans Services Officer with the American Legion. During this time, he met and married U.S. Army veteran Theresa Williams. Wally and Theresa bonded over their shared passion for community service, and they enjoyed many adventures on the open road.
Wally was preceded in death by his grandson, Topher. He is survived by his children, September Herrin (Matt) and Marika Moffitt (James) and his god-children Misuzu and Hideki Chinen and Sakari Woods (Amy). He is also survived by his wife, Theresa Garland, and her sons Colton and Brandon; the mother of his children, Kelley Woods; brother John Garland; sister Fran Garland; nephews Samuel, Joseph, and William; and numerous chosen-family, whom Wally loved dearly.
Ever the outdoors enthusiast, Wally was known for his love of hiking, camping, sailing, and fishing. Wally loved a good party and a bad joke. He cherished animals, food, and country music. Wally will be remembered for his humor, commitment to community, and love for his family. His indomitable spirit and lust for life were gifts to everyone who knew him.
Friends and family will be invited to a celebration of life later this spring.
