Wallie Funk, Sr., doughboy in France, 1917-18.

Jul 6

Original Photo

The original photo used as reference for the mural was photographed by an unknown photographer circa 1918.

Wallie Valentine Funk was born August 9, 1892 in Anacortes, Washington. The child of Valentine Funk and Barbara Miltonberger, who moved to Anacortes, Washington in 1886, Wallie had one sister Louise.

Following graduation from Anacortes high school, Mr. Funk served with the Allied Expeditionary Forces during World War I, and saw action in five major offensives. Returning to Anacortes after service with the army of occupation, he married Irene Brown June 6, 1921.

Mr. Funk joined his father in the operation of the New Wilson hotel. His other ventures included erection of what is now the Bank of the Pacific at 7th and Commercial.

A leader in community affairs, Mr. Funk was a charter member of the Anacortes Rotary club, past member of B.P.O.E., Anacortes Lodge 1204; an officer in the Anacortes Chamber of Commerce, and a charter member of Causland Post No. 13, American Legion. He was also a member of St. Mary’s parish.

Wallie passed away on December 4, 1955 in Seattle, Washington, though his home was still in Anacortes. He was survived by his wife, Irene; three sons, Wallie, James, and Charles; three grandsons, Steven, Gary, and Mark; his father, Valentine, and a sister, Mrs. Louise Mackin.