Galen Walden

Galen E. Walden Sr., 76, of Fort Wayne, passed away at home on November 30, 2024. Born in Springdale, AR on December 20, 1947, to Ernest Galen and Anna Marie Walden, Galen spent his formative years in Miami, OK, graduating from Miami High School in 1965. In July 1966, he met Judy M Berry of Picher, OK and they married on November 19th of that year, shortly after, they relocated to the Fort Wayne area in 1967. They later moved to Churubusco in 1978, where they spent 19 years raising their 4 children before the two of them returned to Fort Wayne, their home for the past 27 years. Galen led a fulfilling career as a truck driver, initially working for US Foodservice for 35 years until its closure. He then worked for Graphic Packaging for eight years until his retirement in 2010 after having driven over 3,000,000+ miles with no accidents. A hardworking and dedicated professional, Galen left an indelible mark on both workplaces. In his retirement, Galen and Judy enjoyed wintering in Sarasota/Bradenton Florida, where they cherished the company of friends, beach outings with their beloved dachshund, Augi, and the warmth of the southern sun. Beyond his profession, Galen had a zest for life that manifested in various hobbies. He loved racing motorcycles, hunting, and raising farm animals for 4-H with his four children. His true passion, however, was football. A loyal IU fan, Galen spent every Saturday watching college football, a ritual that brought him immense joy. After football season was over, he spent every Saturday watching college basketball, again rooting for his favorite team, the Indiana Hoosiers. Galen is survived by his dedicated and loving wife of 58 years, Judy Walden, his four children, Anna M. Walden of Jefferson, GA, Amy (Chet) Sivley of Wabash, Galen Walden Jr. of Churubusco, and Lindsey (Brian) McConnell-First of Fort Wayne; he also leaves behind three grandchildren, Mallory Gienger, Galen Walden III, and Zackary McConnell; and one great-grandchild, Grayston Cahill; he is further survived by his brother, Eric Walden of Marion, AK; and his dachshund, Augi. Galen was preceded in death by his parents and sisters, Teresa Walden and Holly Zimmerman. A Celebration of Life will be held on January 19, 2025, at The Vault (1212 South Randolph Street, Garrett IN) from 1pm-5pm.