Willard was born May 29, 1924 in Canton, Ohio. He attended school in Stewartville, MN. After, he joined the United States Navy in December of 1943. He was honorably discharged as a Signalman of 3rd Class on May 10, 1946. In September of that same year, he married Virginia Underbakke. Together they had a daughter, Christine, and resided in Rochester. In their free time, they enjoyed boating on the river and spending time at their cabin. They moved to Canton, MN in 1983. Willard worked at IBM until his retirement in 1984. His remaining years were spent doing what he loved- cooking, gardening, fishing, and spending time with his family. He enjoyed life to the fullest, and will be sorely missed.
Willard passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 3, 2017, at his home in Canton, surrounded by his loved ones, at the age of 93.
He has left behind his daughter, Christine Richardson of Canton; two grandchildren, Kelly (Kevin) Biel of Harmony and Bill (Carla) Richardson of Canton; ten great-grandchildren; one sister, Joyce Balcome of Redwing; and many nieces and nephews. He is once again united with his wife, Virginia, who died December 23, 1994. Together, they will be watching over their great-grandson, Kasey and nephew Brad.
Mass of Christian burial will be 11 a.m. Saturday, June 10at Assumption Catholic Church with Father Edward McGrath officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery in Canton. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the church. |
