In Loving Memory of Kenneth Donald Wallace

June 2, 1941 - September 6, 2023

Kenneth Donald Wallace, husband, father, grandfather, and master craftsman passed away on September 6th at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of love, family, and a profound talent for preserving the past.

Born on June 2, 1941, in Oakland, California, Ken was the son of Philippa Daly Wallace and William Kenneth Wallace. He spent his childhood and formative years in Alameda, California, where he developed a passion for competitive swimming, earned the title of Duncan Yo-Yo Champion of Alameda for seven consecutive years, and consistently found himself involved in various forms of mischief. He also developed an unparalleled work ethic and sense of independence which would serve him in the military and throughout his lifetime.

In a story of high school sweethearts turned lifelong partners, Ken married his beloved Barbara Joan Bonato. They built a family and their story was a testament to commitment that spanned 59 years of marriage. Ken's career in the pharmaceutical industry took him, Barbara, and their family to opposite corners of the country, including Pleasanton, California, Westlake Village, California, and Ridgefield, Connecticut. In 1990, they returned to California, settling in the town of Colfax. It was here that they built a large home that would house countless family gatherings and planted deep roots.

Ken is survived by his wife, Barbara, his daughter, Susan Wallace Pfefferlen, and son-in-law, Michael Pfefferlen, his son, Ken Wallace, his son, Brad Wallace, and daughter-in-law, Erica Smith Wallace. One of his greatest sources of pride was his six beautiful grandchildren: Abigail Pfefferlen (26), Emily Pfefferlen (23), Hannah Pfefferlen (21), Kyle Wallace (20), Megan Wallace (18), and Elizabeth Wallace (11). He loved to entertain them with his captivating stories and play silly pranks which kept everyone on their toes.

In addition to his family, Ken is survived by his siblings, Ann Wallace Monroe and Roderick Bruce Wallace, along with a circle of cousins and friends who loved and supported him throughout his journey.

Ken's passion for antique furniture and clocks was evident in every facet of his life. For the past six decades, he dedicated himself to the art of clock repair and restoration. Known far and wide as "the clock guy," Ken meticulously cared for old timepieces of all kinds. He traveled throughout Placer County, making house calls, visiting clients, and forging lasting friendships along the way. His legacy lives on through his unmatched skill and dedication to this dying art, leaving behind a timeless mark through the ticking of every well-restored clock.

In the words of T.S. Eliot, "Time present and time past, are both perhaps present in time future." Kenneth Donald Wallace will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

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