Wally Mulcahy

Wally Mulcahy, a beloved member of the Barnesville community, passed peacefully on February 3, 2024, at Essentia Hospital in Fargo, ND. He was born on December 10, 1934, on the family farm in Barnesville, MN to Edward and Dora (Nicklay) Mulcahy. Wally was known for his hard work, dedication, and fun-loving personality.

Wally's education started out having attended District 65 country school followed by Assumption Catholic School.  In his career, Wally worked for Green Valley Farms under the ownership of Bob Berg for over 20 years. He helped several area farmers by tirelessly throwing potato sacks for many years. One of the highlights of his career was when he took charge of the Fred Nicklay farm where he owned his own cattle herd, Polled Herefords; he proudly showcased them all around the country. Furthermore, from 1980 to 1999, Wally served as a janitor at Barnesville High School where he enjoyed being around the students and staff.

Wally had an infectious storytelling ability and always had a tale to share. When he started a conversation with "I'll never forget...." you knew you were in for a great story from the past.  Among his favorite narratives was the one about pitching in a baseball game against the legendary Roger Maris. His love for baseball extended beyond stories as he actively participated in the sport for many years. Wally's dedication to the sport extended to coaching women's and men’s Barnesville softball teams. In addition to baseball and softball, Wally served on the Clay County Fair Board and contributed to the Rod-n-Gun Club. Golfing, fishing, and bowling were also hobbies that brought him immense joy throughout his life.  For the last several years he has planted a garden at his daughter’s home which created daily trips to tend to the garden.  He also enjoyed watching the MN Twins, but if they were losing you would find him sitting in the driveway instead of watching the game.  

One of Wally's proudest accomplishments was raising a wonderful family. He beamed with pride when speaking about his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. They were a constant source of joy and fulfillment in his life. Wally had an insatiable thirst for life and cherishing memories with loved ones was paramount to him. He treasured his brother Eddie and wife Marlys immensely and recognized their importance and special place in his heart. His wonderful neighbors Gary and Randy Fraedrich held a special place in his life as well.

Wally will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Carol Mulcahy, who felt things were great as long as he gave in. His children, David (Mary) Mulcahy of Emily, MN; Kathy (Joel) Scheffler of Barnesville, MN; Karen (Jeff) Hough of Lincoln, NE; and Darin (Crystal)  Mulcahy of Fargo, ND; will forever cherish the memories they shared with their father, also grandchildren Tracie Robeck, Ryan Mulcahy, Ronald Scheffler, Brian Scheffler, Brandy Erickson, Jeana Scheffler, Sheryl Chaloner, Kym Toner, Hailey Grosz, Emma Vold, Wally's brother Eddie (Marlys) Mulcahy of Barnesville, MN; sister Agnes Barta of Moorhead, MN; and sister Dorothy (Curt) Cook of Dilworth, MN also mourn his loss alongside 23 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

Preceded him in death are a grandson Kent Hough, his parents Ed and Dora, infant brother, Curtis, and siblings Berneice Lewis, Donald Mulcahy, Marjorie Stubstad, Everett (Shine) Mulcahy, and Lorraine Barry.  

A visitation and prayer service will be held on February 7, 2024, at Dobmeier Funeral & Cremation Service located at 202 Front Street North P.O. Box 235 in Barnesville, MN. The visitation will begin at 5:00 PM followed by the prayer service at 7:00 PM. Visitation will continue on February 8, 2024, at St. James United Church of Christ situated at 201 3rd St SE in Barnesville, MN from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. A funeral service to celebrate Wally's life will follow starting at 11:00 AM.

Wally Mulcahy leaves a legacy filled with hard work, laughter, and love. His memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.  Please scroll down and leave a message for Wally's family.