Wallace B. "Wally" Van Syckle, age 75 of Hersey, passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at his home surrounded by loved ones, following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born September 27, 1935 in Barryton the son of Joseph and Edith (Adams) Van Syckle. Wally graduated from Barryton High School. Wally worked for Babb Ford as an auto mechanic until his retirement. He was known as the best mechanic in Hersey. He was employed with the Village of Hersey in the maintenance department for five years before he was diagnosed with cancer. Wally was always on the go; he enjoyed watching NASCAR (especially Dale Earnhardt) and liked cooking on the grill. Wally was a good friend to all, he loved his family and was an "always there for you" dad. He is survived by his 5 children, Kimberly Boglarsky of Hersey, Teri (Tony) Dudley of Reed City, Darcy (Ken) Stalker of Roseville, Troy (Denise) Van Syckle of Reed City, and Tim (Erin) Van Syckle of IL.; 2 brothers, Bill of Barryton and Raymond of Paris; 4 sisters, Carlene (Richard) of Flint, Lela of Traverse City, Judy of Rodney, and Zoa of Greenville; 16 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and special friends Debbie Wedegartner and Beverly Van Syckle. Wally was preceded in death by his parents and 8 brothers and sisters. A celebration of Wally's life has been planned from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 19th at the Blodgett Landing Park in Hersey. The family would like to invite all those who knew Wally for a luncheon and sharing of memories. Memorial contributions can be made in Wallace's name to the Hospice of Michigan. Envelopes can be picked up at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home of Big Rapids.