OK SR56

Commends the life and accomplishments of Oklahoma children's author Bill Wallace, who was raised in Chickasha and graduated from Chickasha High School in 1965.

Recognizes Wallace's educational background (Bachelor's from University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in 1971, Master's from Southwestern State University in 1974) and 16-year career with Chickasha Public Schools in various roles including teacher and principal.

Honors Wallace's prolific writing career beginning in 1971, during which he authored 31 children's books and co-authored seven additional books with his wife Carol over 45 years of marriage.

Notes Wallace received 21 State Children Choice Awards from across the nation and the Oklahoma Center for the Book's Arrell M. Gibson Lifetime Achievement Award in 2000 for his contributions to children's literature.

Extends condolences to the Wallace family following his death from lung cancer on January 30, 2012, and directs distribution of the resolution to his widow Carol and children Laurie Whitener, Nikki Moore, and Justin Wallace.