David Lamar Walding

David Lamar Walding, age 83, of New Richmond, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family.

David was born on August 2, 1942, in Phenix City, Alabama, to John "JR" and Mildred Walding. Growing up, David possessed a spirited and adventurous nature. He loved the outdoors, nature, and a bit of excitement family members fondly recalling the time he brought an alligator home and placed it in the bathtub. Despite his adventurous youth, David was at heart a quiet and deeply caring man who consistently put others before himself.

On April 1, 1967, David married the love of his life, Carol Walding, eloping together in Menlo Park, California. Their marriage was one built on devotion, strength, and kindness, and together they created a home centered on love and resilience. They raised three daughters, giving their children everything they could from humble Christmas mornings with gifts wrapped in newspaper to laughter and humor shared during life's more difficult moments. David worked tirelessly, often holding three jobs at once, simply to ensure his family had every opportunity possible. Providing for and caring for those he loved was both his purpose and his greatest joy.

A quiet-spoken and loving man, David led by example through sacrifice, humility, and unwavering support. Becoming a grandfather brought him immense happiness. Whether it was chair rides to the laundromat with Matthew, long walks outdoors, or cheering from the sidelines, David was always present and endlessly proud. Though he enjoyed professional baseball, nothing compared to watching his grandchildren play those moments meant the most to him.

David will be remembered as a gentle and steadfast presence a quiet hero whose love was shown through actions rather than words, and whose care for others left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

He is survived by his daughters, Holly Hayden, Lisa Walding, and Wendy Walding; his grandchildren, Matthew Walding, Charity Williamson, Josiah Hayden, Christy Hayden, Danielle "MiMi" Walding, James Hayden, and David Walding; and his great-grandchildren, Sofia Hayden, Joseph "JJ" Walding, and Evelyn Hayden.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John "JR" and Mildred Walding; his beloved wife of 55 years, Carol; and his three siblings.

It was David's greatest pleasure to care for those around him, and he will be deeply missed by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.Arrangements are entrusted to O'Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of River Falls. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-425-5644.