Richard Willis

Resided in Gladstone, MI
Died March 25, 2023

Gladstone, MI

Richard Willis, age 81, of Gladstone, was called peacefully home to our Lord and Savior on Saturday, March 25, 2023.

Richard was born on July 9, 1941, in Gladstone, Michigan, the son of Benjamin and Louise (Desotell) Willis. He was united in marriage to Mary Demars on January 15, 1966, in Menominee, Michigan.  In Richard’s younger years, he worked on the VanDamme Potato Farm and then for Shadetree trimming trees and Gaffner Machines.  As a hobby, Richard would collect old junk cars which eventually became his business Willis Salvage.  Richard loved working in the “junkyard” and serving his customers with used car and truck parts.  While retired, Richard has enjoyed spending time with his loving wife Mary, his children and grandchildren.  He enjoyed playing cards, putting together puzzles, and visiting with friends.  Richard was a longtime member of All Saints Catholic Church.

Richard is survived by:

Daughter: Susan (Joseph) Lawrick of Olive Branch, MS

Son: Keith (Christa) Willis of Indianapolis, IN

3 Brothers-In-Law: Al (Geraldine) Demers of Appleton, WI

                  ​        Clifford Demars of Menominee, MI

                            Jerry DeMars of Menominee, MI

3 Sisters-In-Law: Doris (Tony) Fugarino of Wisconsin Rapids, WI

                            Sharon Demarce of Menominee, MI

                            Evelyn (Dean) Nelson of Menominee, MI

5 Grandchildren:  Chelsey (Brazel Crocker) Lawrick, Luke, Claire, Olivia, Jude Willis

And numerous Nieces, Nephews and Cousins.

In addition to his parents, Richard is preceded in death by:

His Loving Wife:  Mary

Son: Richard Lee

Sister-In-Law: Dorothy Van

Sisters: Viola Olson, Lila Frances Deringer

Brothers: Ben, Leonard, LeRoy & Robert

Family will receive friends on Thursday, March 30, 2023, from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone, MI. A rosary will be led by the Knights of Columbus at 4:45 PM at the Skradski Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for 5:30 PM at All Saints Catholic Church in Gladstone, MI with Rev. Fr. Jamie Ziminski officiating. A luncheon will follow in the parish hall. Richard will be laid to rest in the Fernwood Cemetery in Gladstone. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to St. Vincent de Paul Society. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Willis family.

15 Tributes for “Richard Willis”

    Such a wonderful man and uncle! Sad to hear of his passing but know he is reunited with Aunt Mary. Rest in peace.. our deepest condolences Sue, Keith and families

    I’m glad I got a chance to talk with you in Walmart a few months back about the good old days of the Willis Junkyard. You were always fair with us young parts collectors. Fond memories. Safe journeys to the promised land.

    So sorry for your loss. I have so many fond memories of your dad, RIP Dick give Mary hugs for us , thoughts and prayers to family

    My thoughts & prayers are with the Willis family. Richard will join his wife Mary who he missed and loved so dearly. RIP Richard Willis

    My thoughts & prayers to the Willis family. I’m sure Richard will be with his wife who he missed & loved so dearly. RIP Richard Willis.

    My condolences to Dick and Mary’s family, They were good people, Dick was an honest and fair man, if you treated him right, he would do the same for you, I spent a lot time in his junkyards searching for car parts, he always treated me right, They will always be remembered and missed by everyone who knew them, Rest In Peace

    My Uncle Dick,was the kindest man I ever knew. My favorite uncle as well. He was a true Christian. I remember when I was 9 years old. He picked up.He was 6’5″and gave me a hug. Heaven has great addition Uncle Dick I will see you in Heaven, when I get there.

    Sure going to miss you, Dad! I’ll sure miss our daily phone calls even when you would only talk for a minute. I’m so happy that you are now with mom. You were so lonely without her. It makes me happy knowing you’re with the love of your life. Love you, Dad!

    We sure will miss you Dick . You and Mary were such a big part of our life’s . We are certain you and Mary are back together as it should be . Rest peacefully our dear friend .

    My condolences. Dick was an awesome guy. Always had a smile. Spent alot of time with my dad in the junkyard looking for stuff he needed. Him and Dick were good friends. Helped each other out a few times. He will be missed!

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