Bruce Harlan Wahlstrom

Wahlstrom
Bruce (Wally) Harlan
Age 74, of Red Wing MN
Lost his battle with cancer and passed away peacefully on October 20, 2023.
Born on March 6, 1949, in Minneapolis to Clarence (Harlan) and Ruth Wahlstrom. He was a talented
musician who played the piano, the trumpet and guitar. After graduating from Minneapolis Vo tech, he
enlisted in the Navy in 1969. He served on the USS Blakely and later the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga
during the Vietnam war.
Returning home in 1973 he was employed at Webb Publishing in St. Paul as a pressman. It was around
1974 when he joined the local band “Cacophony” as a guitarist. At a house party in Minneapolis, he met
his future wife, Sandra Napier. Bruce and Sandi spent as much time as possible with each other and
went on to get married in 1975. They had one son, Jeremy, and spent 25 wonderful years together living
in a quiet neighborhood in Afton MN. The Wahlstrom and Napier extended families instantly hit it off
and spent many holidays and events together. They still stay in touch today.
Bruce is survived by former Wife Sandra Napier, Son Jeremy, Granddaughter Kaylen Hannigan, Great
Granddaughters Ruby and Rory, Brother Gary (Janice) Wahlstrom, Sister Lory (Robert) Hrkal, Niece
Amanda (Mike) Bostic, Nephew Chris Hrkal, Great Niece Emily Vaughn, Stepson Jason Clickner and Step
Granddaughters Anna and Lexi. And of course, his beloved dog Gaius Baltar.
Aside from his love of music, Bruce was passionate about CB radio. He was a member of a CB radio club,
had giant antennas on his roof and spoke with people all over the world. He loved being involved with
computers. He had one of the first Mac computers in the 80’s and enjoyed tinkering with the latest
technology. He enjoyed spending time with family at their places on Mille Lacs, where he oversaw
building campfires.
The Last year of his life was spent with family sharing stories about his life experiences, such as playing a
round of golf in Guantanamo Bay Cuba.
He will be truly missed.
In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to any veteran’s organization or the American Cancer Society.
Graveside service at Fort Snelling 7601 34 th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55450, entrance 2, assembly area
______ October 26, 2023, at 9 am.
A gathering of family and friends to take place after the service. Time & place to be determined.