Ted Willis Sr.
1927-2013

Ted Milton Willis Sr., 85, of St. Joseph passed this life Thursday, September 26, 2013 at his home surrounded by family and is now with the Lord.

Ted was born November 20, 1927 to Sarah Layson Willis in Galesburg, IL.  His adult life has been one of service to others.  He enlisted with the Merchant Marines in 1944 then October 1946 he began a tour of duty with the U.S. Army in which he met and married his wife Louisa “Iky” Seever on February 19, 1946.  On Feb 4, 1953 he received honorable discharge from US Air Force. Ted later joined U.S Air National Guard until mandatory retirement at the age of 60 in November 1987 with over 21 years of military service having earning numerous medals.

Ted was a member of VFW local 6760, serving and Commander for seven years and American Legion Post 359.

His hobbies included outdoors, especially hunting and fishing.  He also enjoyed playing slot machines.

Preceding him in death are his parents; four brothers, Victor, Donald, Robert, and Dean Willis; two sisters, Cecil Moran and Vernon Sauter and infant son, Gary.

Survivors include wife Louisa “Iky” of 67 years; five children, Ted Jr. (Marilyn) Willis, George Willis, David (Roxanna)Willis, Debbie (Charles) Sumter, and Susan (Tom) Solberg; thirteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

Ted has been cremated under direction of Clark-Sampson Funeral Home.

Family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, October 4, at King Hill Baptist Church. A Memorial Service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, October 5 at King Hill Baptist Church.  Chaplain Dave Earnst officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to VFW post 6760.

Online obituary and condolences at www.clarksampson.com