NewsCoronavirus

Actions

Woman urges others to take COVID-19 seriously after her father's death

Posted
and last updated

Angie Molina adores her father, Jim Wallace.

Jim lived in Oak Creek. He was an Army veteran, and he taught Angie how to love life.

"My dad was an amazing man. He was loved by many many many people," said Angie.

Jim enjoyed softball, golf, fishing, hunting, and camping.

But on Sunday, Jim was hospitalized for some issues with his blood sugar. Because of a week's long persistent cough, he was tested for COVID-19 and was sent home.

Tuesday morning, Jim passed away. Angie says hours later, they learned her father's COVID-19 test came back positive.

Their family was surprised. They had no idea where or how Jim contracted COVID-19.

"It's very, very heartbreaking. It's very, very difficult," said Angie.

Since then, Angie and her family have been told to self-quarantine.

She and her husband closed their business, Racine Brewing Company, for two weeks.

"This is the best way to keep everybody safe, and like I said, not put anybody else's family potentially in danger," said Angie.

Under quarantine and unable to make proper funeral arrangements or mourn with loved ones, Angie hopes sharing her reality will make a difference.

"Do not take your loved ones for granted. Tell them that you love them every day. And please take social distancing seriously. Wash your hands and keep your family safe," said Angie.

Jim was 73 years old when he died. He is survived by his wife, two kids, and seven grandchildren.

Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip

Coronavirus in Wisconsin

More data on Wisconsin's vaccination progress here.

Find a vaccination site here.

Check out county-by-county coronavirus case numbers here.

More information: COVID-19 on the Wisconsin DHS website

Latest news and headlines here.