James Leland Wallace

May 7, 1946 – November 20, 2025

Leland was born May 7, 1946 in Porterville, California to James and Verna Wallace.  His sister Irene was born a couple years later, and the family moved to Fish Lake Valley when he was about six years old.  Leland attended Dyer Elementary School, and met Marlene who was also attending Dyer Elementary.  He helped and worked on the farm as most kids who grow up on farms do.  He attended Bishop Union High School and graduated in 1964.

After graduation, he worked as a mill Foreman at Grefco Mine.  As typical for the time, he was drafted into the Army and did his basic training at Ford Ord, Monterey.  He served as a member as a member of the 549^th MP Company at Fort Davis, in the Panama Canal Zone.  He came home on leave and married Marlene on November 11, 1967, and she joined him for the rest of his tour in Panama.

When his service to his country was complete, the couple moved to Reno, Nevada where Leland obtained his real estate broker license.  In 1970 Marlene and Leland returned to Fish Lake as Leland missed farming and working the land.  They purchased 320 acres of bare ground and began their lives as farmers on Valley View Ranch.

In 1974 Grant was born, and Devon came along in 1978.  The family of four continued their life on the farm, purchasing another 160 acres.  Leland served as Esmeralda County Commissioner for a time, the Nevada State Soil Conservation Commission, Esmerelda County Soil Conservation District, and was always working to protect agriculture and rural life.  He was very proud that his son Grant and grandson Owen are continuing his legacy on the farm.

Leland continued to farm his entire life until he passed away on November 20, 2025 at his home on the farm, where he wanted to be.  He is survived by his wife of 58 years Marlene, his son Grant (Trisha), his daughter Devon Scott (Shane), grandsons Owen Hildenbrand, Aiden Scott, granddaughter Trista Scott, and sister Irene Livermore.

Graveside services will be held Friday, December 12, 2025 at 11:00am at the Fish Lake Cemetery.  A Potluck will be held by the Dorcas Women’s Club at the Fish Lake Valley Community Center following the graveside services.  Please bring your favorite side dish to celebrate Leland.